In this day workshop the students of the IMBS International Master Program in Biomedical Sciences at the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg explored the relationships between a sense of humor, stress, and coping strategies. The 19 international students deepened their theoretical aspects of humor by several exercises and reflections in groups. They received humor tools and practical impulses to gradually strengthen their individual “humor muscle” and to stimulate their creativity and flexibility.Participants:“I think that laughing at our own mistakes can be useful for any profession, especially in scientific research where things don’t go the way you want them all the time. I also believe that maintaining a positive and cheerful attitude is contagious for the rest of the work team.““I enjoyed the speaking skills of the presenter, she has a wonderful command over her voice and diction and uses it efficiently to capture the audience!““Its feels good to connect with people in a relaxed way and appreciate the lighter side of life.

„Overcoming Difficulties by Humor“ was the topic of Kirsten Haenle’s half day workshop for 18 international students of the M.Sc. Global Urban Health program at the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg. The hybrid lecture was a mix of presentation, groupwork, physical impulses, discussions and reflections. As the students just started their course, this fun workshop made them grow together as a group. At the end of the workshop the students were able to understand the effects of humor as a coping strategy and to develop new perspectives and solutions in challenging situations.

Dr. Sonia Diaz-Monsalve, Project Coordinator GUH: „We (Master Global Urban Health, University of Freiburg) were extremely thankful to deliver the humor session with Kirsten Haenle…  It was an excellent opportunity to cope with current COVID challenges, providing hope, practical techniques and good spirit to our international Master students and to all of us!“„Overcoming Difficulties by Humor“ was the topic of Kirsten Haenle’s half day workshop for 18 international students of the M.Sc. Global Urban Health program at the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg. The hybrid lecture was a mix of presentation, groupwork, physical impulses, discussions and reflections.