FAQs
Q: How do I become a member of the student council?
A: Hi! First of all, it's great that you want to get involved. Feel free to stop by our office or come to one of our meetings. At the beginning of the winter semester, we host an introductory meeting for anyone who is interested.
Q: Where can I learn more about studying (Bio)chemistry at LMU?
A: You can find information here: For Freshmen, CuP Freshmen Page, LMU Info Page.
If you have further questions, you can also reach out to us via Instagram or email. You can find more details on our contact page.
Q: Do you have a lot of free time while studying (Bio)chemistry?
A: These degree programs are full-time studies. Especially during the first four semesters, it can be challenging to find time for leisure activities between lectures in the morning and lab practicals in the afternoon.
Q: The student council organizes the hall parties (Saalfeste), right?
A: NO! The hall parties are organized by the students currently taking the respective lab practical course. We do not sign off on room bookings for them either. If you have questions or uncertainties, feel free to drop by or write to us.
Q: I received an email mentioning something about university elections (Hochschulwahl). What is that? Is it relevant? Do I have to vote?
A: The university election takes place digitally once a year during the summer semester and is your opportunity to vote for student council representatives. Elected representatives can assume the FSI chair position and serve on the faculty council.
Q: 5 books were recommended in the first lecture. Do I really have to buy/read all of them?
A: You can if you like, but usually one book is enough—it largely depends on your learning style. The most important book is typically the first one listed or explicitly highlighted by the professor. Pro tip: You rarely need to buy books; our library has most of the recommended literature available (also as E-Book to download).
Q: Are there any mandatory events/courses?
A: The lab practicals and a few specific seminars in the 5th and 6th semesters are mandatory.
Q: I forgot to register for an exam and the registration deadline has passed. What can I do?
A: No stress! This happens all the time and most professors are very accommodating. As soon as you notice, send an email to the responsible person/lecturer—it usually won't be a problem.
Q: Chemistry? Isn't that super dangerous?
A: Well, at the start of every practical course, there is a mandatory safety briefing covering emergencies and equipment like emergency and eye showers. However, you should be aware that you will regularly work with hazardous chemicals and need to pay attention. A primary goal of the Bachelor's program is learning how to handle chemicals confidently and safely. Severe accidents are extremely rare!
Q: The cafeteria food options aren't for me. Where else can I get food?
A: FSI insider tips: Bio-Mensa, Klinikum Mensa, Rewe for snacks or cold drinks in the summer, Döner or Subway at the subway station if you're in a rush, plus several great beer gardens in Großhadern 🙂
Q: I need to email my supervisor or tutor, but I forgot to write down their contact details.
A: You can usually find email addresses on the research group websites. Otherwise, feel free to ask in your semester WhatsApp groups or Moodle courses.
Q: Hey, that wasn't okay and I want to talk about it. What can I do if I have experienced boundary-crossing behavior from a student, supervisor, or lecturer?
A: On campus, we have Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) responders, among others. These individuals are doctoral candidates, students, and lecturers who are specifically trained to connect you with professional help. You can find them here.
Q: Can I book a room through the FSI?
A: No, room bookings are handled by the lecture hall management (Hörsaalverwaltung), whom you should email first. If you need help filling out the application, feel free to stop by our office (Room D1.005). However, we are not allowed to sign as responsible parties.
Q: How do I find out when the student council meetings take place?
A: Great question! Our meetings take place every 2 weeks on Tuesdays, usually in Room D0.001. Dates are announced during the freshman meeting in the winter semester, but if you want to join later, stop by our office or check our door (Room D1.005), where the next meeting date is posted. You can also check our website.
Q: I need help with one or more lectures. Does the FSI offer support for this?
A: Absolutely! You can find our tutoring service here.
Q: I would like to offer tutoring. Does the FSI facilitate this?
A: Yes, definitely! You can reach our tutoring network here.
Q: Are there prayer or meditation rooms on campus?
A: Yes, there are prayer/meditation rooms available in the following rooms: (insert rooms).
Q: I have a concern regarding a lecturer, but I don't want to bring it up in person. Can the FSI address it for me?
A: Yes, we can gladly do that. Once per semester, we host the Lecturers' Café (Dozierenden-Café), where we discuss various topics with teaching staff to help resolve issues and raise student concerns.
Q: Studying is getting too stressful for me. I think I need help. Does LMU offer support?
A: Yes, we have Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) responders on campus, among other resources. These individuals are doctoral students, undergraduates, and lecturers specifically trained to assist with initial contact to professional help options. You can find them here.
Q: What should I include in an exam memory protocol for a Master's module exam in Chemistry?
A: Examiner combination, date, lectures covered, preparation steps (if applicable), exam structure (questions + answers, including sketches and hints if relevant), difficulties encountered, and conclusion.