30 students, 9 Unite! universities, 8 days: In September, the U!Train stopped at TU Darmstadt and continued on to Graz. The blended programme focused on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and multicultural collaboration. HIGHEST played a key organisational role; Jessica Retzlaff supported planning and delivery.
The kick-off in Darmstadt combined a mini German course, a mapathon, and an inspiring visit to Wingcopter. An intensive workshop with Georg Fischer (former SAP Chief Product Manager) prepared teams for the work ahead. During the 9.5-hour train journey to Graz, the groups conducted interviews and built personas. In Graz, sessions with 7 of the 9 Unite! universities followed — from LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and pitch training to insights at the StadtLABOR and a networking event with Ideentriebwerk. The week concluded with final pitches, rounded off by Apfelstrudel and a taste of Austrian folk dance.
“This mix of travel, hands-on formats, and real teamwork sets talent in motion — mentally and as a team. In just a few days, an entrepreneurial mindset takes shape, international collaboration becomes second nature, and ideas turn into actionable solutions,” says Jessica Retzlaff (HIGHEST).
Students shared similarly strong takeaways. Riya Tomar (TU Darmstadt): “This week meant a lot to me. I met amazing people, learned a lot — also about myself — and together we created an open culture where everyone could grow.”
The outcomes: implementation-ready solution approaches, strengthened entrepreneurial capabilities, and visible women’s leadership across teams. Thanks to Wingcopter, Georg Fischer, StadtLABOR, Ideentriebwerk, and the Unite! community.