The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is characterized by an exceptional range of extracurricular activities and offers students a variety of opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in practice. HSG is known for its strong support of student initiatives and associations that allow students to gain hands-on experience in various fields and develop their skills in collaboration with their fellow students. These projects also provide students with the opportunity to expand their network and meet potential employers.

One of the best-known extracurricular activities at the HSG is the St. Gallen Symposium. Established in 1969, the Symposium is an annual conference that brings together students, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and LoTs which are students from around the world to discuss critical economic and social issues. The first symposium, organized by the International Student’s Committee (ISC) in collaboration with the St. Gallen Symposium Foundation and the University of St. Gallen, took place in 1970 and attracted more than 200 participants.

Over the years, the St. Gallen Symposium has developed into a major conference for business and society with prominent speakers and panel discussions. Today, the ISC is responsible for organizing the Symposium. It is made up of students from different academic fields who devote a year to planning the event. The Foundation provides strategic advice, and the University provides space and infrastructure. The organizing team is supported by a large number of volunteers and supporters. In its long history, the St. Gallen Symposium has become an integral part of the extracurricular activities at the University of St. Gallen. It offers students the unique opportunity to exchange ideas with leading personalities from business and politics and thus expand their knowledge and skills.

The current ISC team talked about the Symposium from their point of view in an interview and mentioned that students are interested in extracurricular activities outside of their academic studies. It was frequently stated that the St. Gallen Symposium provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to plan an international event at a young age, fostering cross-generational exchange and offering a unique learning opportunity. Those who are seeking to step out of their comfort zones and take on new challenges will find the symposium particularly attractive. The ISC team has had the chance to interact with a variety of new and fascinating people who can inspire them to realize their professional goals and ambitions.

The human aspect of the program is equally significant, as the team members initially start as 30 strangers but soon form a cooperative relationship and friendship, working together to overcome shared obstacles, such as managing multiple shifts and keeping track of various responsibilities. Each person who was interviewed affirms to have gained a tremendous amount of experience in this one year and to be capable of handling duties even when they lack the necessary abilities.

They are more self-assured and learned how to collaborate with experts on an equal footing. In a nutshell they are willing to push themselves and discover their boundaries. Their greatest success and ultimate achievement is seeing the symposium become reality after a year of planning, much consideration, and several background preparations. Success is often the result of several small accomplishments, such as reconnecting with two speakers he encouraged to participate at the symposium. The SGS-Team emphasizes the significance of embracing challenges, truly trying to comprehend intergenerational perspectives, and extends their sincere appreciation towards the 500 volunteers and 200 LoTs who are crucial in making the St. Gallen Symposium a reality.