In this blog post, Caro, General Coordinator of DEGIS, shares her own journey as an international student in Germany and explains how the Buddy Program was created to provide the kind of support she once wished for. Since 2021, the program has helped more than 2,000 students navigate German bureaucracy, student life, and cultural adjustment, all while fostering meaningful friendships along the way. Whether you’re a Newbie looking for guidance or a Veteran ready to give back and earn a volunteer certificate, the DEGIS Buddy Program is your gateway to connection, support, and community.

Queer. International. Unapologetically visible. Mithil Barath shares his journey from isolation in a small German town to building spaces of belonging for queer internationals. From founding a DEGIS chapter to raising twins in Cologne, his story is a powerful call for action, visibility, and year-round inclusion.

Based on her own volunteering experiences and time with DEGIS, Nur Banu Yavuz shares why volunteering is more than just giving back—it’s about growth, leadership, and finding a community that feels like home. At DEGIS, international students build community, develop leadership skills, and shape their own journey in Germany. Whether you’re new or looking to deepen your roots, volunteering with DEGIS offers flexible roles, real-world impact, and a sense of belonging.

As a former DAAD-funded international student mentor and DER SPIEGEL interviewee on student housing, Stefanie Herta from DEGIS Network shares 6 key signs to help you spot scams and find safe, legitimate accommodation in Germany! Backed by personal insight and hands-on experience, this guide is a must-read for anyone navigating the German rental market.

Aarushi Goel, Head of DEGIS Network explains how you can best handle exam stress and refocus this energy into learning! While exam stress is a natural aspect of academic life, it doesn’t have to overshadow your performance or well-being. In this blog, Aarushi shares practical strategies to manage pressure, build resilience, and make exam prep more productive and balanced.

The new year is here, and with it comes a fresh start! As an international student, balancing goals, habits, and daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming. In this blog, Stefanie from DEGIS Network shares practical strategies for setting meaningful goals, building habits that last, and staying motivated throughout the year. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, balance, and success – one step at a time!

German winters can be magical with the right mindset! Tonya (@gravity_tonya) shares her top tips to enjoy the season, from festive Christmas market treats to cozy night-ins with friends. & Don’t miss our Winter Wellness & New Year Planning Webinar on Dec 18th for even more inspiration to make the most of this season!

Pursuing my dream of permanently migrating to Germany and studying Psychology in a German-taught Master’s program was a goal I cherished for nearly a decade. As the only international student in my program, I encountered unique challenges and rewarding experiences. In this blog post, I share my personal journey of moving to Germany, managing academic pressures, and discovering a supportive international student community.