Networking in Practice: “Science Pitch” on 28 October 2025
JLU alumni received practical tips regarding pitching science and active networking
JLU graduates and students had a chance to learn how to network successfully and how to convey complex information concisely during the second edition of the event „Networking in Practice“. This event format initiated by JLU Alumni Service and Career Services was organized for the first time in Winter Semester 2024/25 as a complementary event to the Career Services' networking workshops. Thanks to the support of the Gießen University Association (GHG) e.V., the event could take place this year at the Faculty Club of the JLU in the Heyligenstaedt restaurant.
Kick-off with inspiring opening speeches
The evening started with the speeches of Prof. Dr. Karsten Krüger, JLU Vice-President for Academic Infrastructure, and GHG President Prof. Dr. Volker Wissemann. Professor Krüger, also alumnus, emphasized that alumni are a living bridge between university and society: “They show how knowledge turns into impact.” Professor Wissemann expressed GHG´s close bond as the friends and supporters of the university with the Alumni Service and called for active participation in GHG.
From a Geography Doctor to speaker and communication trainer
The focus of the evening was the speech of Dr. Stephen Wagner. Wagner told the participants how he became a successful speaker and communication trainer after earning his doctorate in Geography. During his studies in Gießen, he volunteered in the World Store (Weltladen) and then completed his PhD at Hohenheim University. After his doctorate studies he started to work as researcher in Bonn University. There, he overcame his shyness about presenting in public and developed a passion for this field through extensive practical experience and active participation in Toastmasters International. After a phase of unemployment, he eventually started, with the encouragement of a career counsellor, to work freelance as a speaker and a trainer. Dr. Wagner demonstrated how active networking opened up exciting career opportunities and international experiences across multiple continents for him.
Networking in a friendly atmosphere
Afterwards, participants seized the opportunity to network with the speaker and with each other, doing so in the Faculty Club. In a relaxed atmosphere the event offered a chance to strike up conversations with other visitors.
