U!Train 2025: a journey of innovation, sustainability and connection across Europe
30 Unite! students, 9 universities, 16 nationalities – one unforgettable learning experience between Darmstadt and Graz
The second edition of the Unite! U!Train brought together 30 students from all nine Unite! universities for an eight-day Blended Intensive Programme focused on entrepreneurship, sustainability and multicultural collaboration. Starting in Darmstadt and travelling together by train to Graz, participants not only explored Europe but also co-developed innovative ideas for a more sustainable future.
The journey began at TU Darmstadt with team-building activities, a Mapathon Workshop, and inspiring sessions on Entrepreneurship and Innovation. A special highlight was the Welcome Dinner at Wingcopter, a student-founded drone startup revolutionising logistics. TU Darmstadt student Riya Tomar summed up the mood:
“This week honestly meant a lot to me. I met so many amazing people, had a ton of fun, and even learned a few things about myself along the way. Glad we got to share it together.”
After exploring Darmstadt’s UNESCO World Heritage site Mathildenhöhe, the group travelled by train through scenic European landscapes to their next destination: TU Graz.
“This week has been unforgettable — full of laughter, learning, and so many special moments with all of you. I’m leaving with new friendships and memories I’ll always cherish.” Similarly, Hassam Sajjad from Grenoble INP – UGA praised the sense of connection that developed among the group: “This time, I believe I had met with really well-connected people from all over Europe. Thanks to the organisers for your great efforts for putting this amazing programme – please keep up with all your effort for next time as well!”
Here, the programme continued with workshops, cultural insights and plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate. From LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and the LEAP Game strategy simulation to site visits and a hike to Thalersee, students engaged in interdisciplinary learning and shared ideas in an open, supportive environment. A highlight in Graz was the collaboration with StadtLABOR and the local startup network Ideentriebwerk.
Over the course of the week, students worked on projects addressing real challenges they observed during their journey – from accessibility and language barriers at European train stations to energy resilience in rural India. Their ideas were as practical as they were creative: from a battery system to prevent power outages in India to digital tools supporting more inclusive train travel in Europe.
For Maya Herneryd from KTH, the programme offered more than just academic input:
“I got to meet around 30 students from all across Europe, which really strengthened my multicultural understanding even more. The best part of it all was the people I met. Together we managed to create an open and safe culture where we as students had the space to grow.”
Teacher Ana Prata from ULisboa, who led a workshop on science communication, shared her impression of the overall atmosphere:
“What incredible days, full of good vibes, inspiring people, and a strong will to make the world a better place!”
But U!Train was more than a project week – it was a European experience. With 16 nationalities on board, students connected across disciplines and cultures, building friendships and growing their networks for future collaboration.