Over 25 Liters of Blood for a Good Cause: University Vampire Reminds Us That Every Drop Counts

Blood cannot be manufactured—only donated. Once again this academic year, students, staff, and members of the public connected to the University of West Bohemia proved they’re not afraid to lend a helping hand—literally. During the University Vampire event, they donated over 25 liters of blood.

“I wanted to do something good. I found out that I have blood type O+, which is considered universal. I feel a bit queasy at the sight of blood, but the nurses reassured me during the donation, and in the end, I didn’t feel sick at all,” said a student from the Faculty of Education at the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (FPE UWB), describing his experience.

Every drop counts – a simple slogan once again united dozens of students, staff, and alumni of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen. The traditional event University Vampire took place twice again during the 2024/2025 academic year and attracted new first-time donors to the donation center at Pilsen University Hospital. In the autumn of 2024, around 85 donors from UWB participated in the donation marathon, along with members of the public. In the summer semester, 56 more joined in.

During the 28th edition of the semesterly event, which took place from April 22 to 24 this year, over 25 liters of blood were collected – blood that can help save lives. The largest contribution came from students of the Faculty of Education, who donated over 10 liters, followed by the Faculty of Applied Sciences with nearly 5 liters. However, donors from almost every faculty across the university participated. Statistics are available here.

“I’m donating because I wanted to check it off my bucket list – and at the same time, it’s for a good cause,” said a student of Early Childhood Education at FPE, who decided to donate for the first time. Her classmate added: “I was mostly afraid they would tell me I couldn’t donate due to missing elements in my blood or that I’d faint. But everything went absolutely fine.” Experienced donors also participate regularly. “It’s a great feeling – kind of addictive, knowing I can help someone,” shared a student from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering.

“Thank you to everyone who came – and even to those who are just considering it. It might be your drop that helps save a life next time,” said Pavel Mentlík, Dean of the Faculty of Education at UWB.

Blood donations at UWB are held twice a year, in the winter and summer semesters. The event is organized by students and staff from the Faculty of Education, the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, and the Faculty of Design and Art, in cooperation with the Transfusion Department of the Pilsen University Hospital.