Author: Carolina Figueiredo

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Between Graduation & Career Entry: New Discussion Paper on International Talent in Germany

Download the full publication: English version | German version
Internationals Employability Framework: How immigration through higher education facilitates the labour-market entry and retention of international STEM professionals

Berlin, 7th May 2026 — Germany’s long-term competitiveness depends on its ability to attract, support, and retain international talent. The new discussion paper Between Graduation and Career Entry by Stifterverband and DEGIS shows that immigration through higher education is one of the most effective pathways for international STEM professionals to enter the German labour market and stay in Germany long-term.

Based on survey data from more than 6,400 international students, graduates, job seekers, and working professionals, the discussion paper examines which factors support successful labour-market entry, workplace integration, and long-term retention in Germany.

The findings are clear: internationals who come to Germany through higher education are three times more likely to find employment than those who come directly for job search. They also integrate more easily into German workplace culture, report higher job satisfaction, and are more likely to extend their intention to stay in Germany.

At the same time, the discussion paper highlights the scale of Germany’s skilled-worker challenge. Around 1.85 million STEM employees over the age of 55 are expected to leave the labour market within the next ten years. Without the growth in foreign skilled workers, Germany’s current STEM skills gap would be 3.2 times larger.

“Germany’s competitiveness depends on international talent, and the data leaves no doubt: students who come through a German university are three times more likely to find a job here. I am convinced universities are our most powerful lever — and policy must now follow the evidence: invest where the impact is highest, and embed language, practical experience, and networks in every programme. We now know what works — and that’s the path to success: for the students who chose Germany, and for Germany itself.”

Jonas Marggraf
Managing Director, DEGIS

At a time when many negative stories around studying and working in Germany are circulating, the discussion paper offers a clearer picture: we now have a recipe for success. German-language proficiency, self-efficacy, academic performance, and practical experience during studies emerge as key factors for entering the German labour market.

Field-related student jobs are especially relevant, with internationals who gain work experience related to their field of study having an 84% higher probability of finding employment, while unrelated side jobs reduce the likelihood of successful labour-market entry.

Successful employment is also closely linked to long-term retention. Internationals who originally planned to stay in Germany only temporarily are 75% more likely to want to stay permanently once they find a job.

For DEGIS, the findings underline the importance of supporting international students not only during their studies, but throughout their transition into the German labour market. Universities, companies, and policymakers all have a role to play in strengthening Germany’s position as a destination for international talent.

Recommended actions include giving immigration through higher education greater political priority, expanding university support structures for international students, embedding German-language learning and practical experience more firmly into study programmes, and strengthening cooperation between universities and companies.

With the right support structures in place, international students can become one of Germany’s strongest pathways to skilled-worker retention, integration, and long-term competitiveness.

Read the full discussion paper:
Download English PDF
Download German PDF

The findings will also be discussed in a Stifterverband online session on May 11, 2026, as part of the “ZMB Deep Dive” series on the sustainable labour-market integration of international students.
Find out more & register here

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Volunteering for DEGIS & Making an Impact on Student Life in Germany

Introduction

Studying in Germany can be both exciting and challenging – new culture, new systems, and a lot to figure out. That’s where DEGIS comes in. As one of the largest international student & talent communities in Germany, DEGIS helps students, both international and national, connect, grow, and make the most of their time here.

My DEGIS Journey

Mansour BadawiMy name is Mansour Badawi, I’m 22 years old, and I came to Germany at 18 right after graduating from high school. I first started volunteering for DEGIS in Wuppertal as an Expansion Manager, supported by nearby chapters like Düsseldorf, Bochum, Essen, and Duisburg to build a stronger DEGIS NRW network.

When I later moved to Schwäbisch Gmünd in the Stuttgart region, I found the local DEGIS City Chapter inactive. That’s when I stepped in as President of DEGIS Stuttgart, working to reactivate the chapter and create a vibrant community again. From hosting webinars to networking and self-development events, I’ve had the chance to support both international and national students in finding a community where they belong.

Why I Volunteer

For me, volunteering has always been about making a difference, no matter how small. I believe that even small actions accumulate into something bigger over time. Beyond my studies, sports, and music, I wanted to do something that truly impacts others.

DEGIS gives me the chance to give back and, at the same time, gain valuable experiences: teamwork, leadership, event planning, and professional networking. The real reward is not money, but the knowledge that I’m helping other students feel supported, connected, and motivated during their time in Germany.

What is DEGIS?

DEGIS is a non-profit organisation with one clear goal: to improve the international student and talent experience in Germany – including through the organization of events, the building & sustainment of peer networks, and creating opportunities for students to thrive.

The organisation is structured into two levels:

  • DEGIS National Team: managed by four current and previous international students. 
    The team supports city chapters, promotes the organization nationally, sources funding and partnership opportunities for community benefit, strategizes growth for the organization and runs nationwide webinars.

  • DEGIS City Chapters. Set out in almost every university city across Germany, DEGIS City Chapters are run by local volunteer teams who organise events and build communities for students.

How DEGIS City Chapters Work

Each city chapter has its own volunteer team, structured into four departments:

  • Marketing – promoting events and student stories through social media, outreach on campus, and creative content (check out the DEGIS National Instagram here!)

  • Events & Projects – planning and hosting events that bring students together, from networking nights to cultural exchanges.

  • HR & Recruiting – welcoming new volunteers, onboarding them, and gathering feedback to keep the community strong.

  • Business Development – building partnerships with universities, institutions, and even other DEGIS chapters.

This structure allows students to both learn practical skills and make an impact on their peers.

Final Words

Being part of DEGIS – whether as a volunteer or simply by attending events – is a unique and rewarding experience. I encourage every student in Germany to take part: join a webinar, attend a local event, or get involved in a city chapter.

Lastly, I want to thank DEGIS and all the inspiring people I’ve met along the way, especially Aarushi, Disipta, Nur, Caro, Stefanie, and Mitali. Together, we’re shaping a stronger and more connected student community across Germany.

If you’re a student in Germany, get involved –  your journey can be just as impactful and rewarding!

😄Click here to become a DEGIS volunteer now!😄

 

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The DEGIS Buddy Program: Making Germany Feel Like Home

Carolina Figueiredo is DEGIS General Coordinator and has been running the Buddy Program since its creation in 2021.

My Own Journey as an International Student

Five years ago, I moved from Brazil to Berlin to pursue my master’s degree. It was a life-changing decision, filled with excitement and possibility, but also plenty of challenges. While my university supported me academically, I often wished I had a peer who truly understood what I was going through: someone to guide me through the maze of German bureaucracy, help me discover the best spots in town, and share the everyday struggles and joys of being new in a foreign country.

Back then, there was no DEGIS and no Buddy Program. Today, thousands of students have access to exactly what I once missed, a community where support, connection, and friendship are only one application away.

The Buddy Program at a Glance

Since its inception in 2021, the DEGIS Buddy Program has supported over 1,000 international students across Germany. The idea is simple but powerful: connecting Newbies, students who have just arrived in Germany, with Veterans, students who have already been here for at least six months.

The program is built on the principle that no student should feel alone when starting life in a new country. Whether it’s tackling German paperwork, making friends, or exploring the city, your buddy is there to make the transition smoother and more enjoyable!

For Newbies: Navigating Your First Months

If you’re just starting your studies in Germany this semester, the Buddy Program is designed with you in mind. As a Newbie, you’ll be paired with a more experienced student who knows what it’s like to walk in your shoes.

Your buddy can:

  • Help you get through bureaucracy like Anmeldung (address registration), opening a bank account, or finding health insurance.
  • Show you how to navigate university systems, register for exams, and find study spaces.
  • Introduce you to student life: clubs, events, affordable shopping spots, and hidden gems in your city.
  • Most importantly, be a friend, helping you settle in and feel at home.

Prerna, a Newbie in Trier, shared her experience:

“My experience with the buddy program was fantastic, and that is almost entirely because I was paired with Rachit Nishad. He has become a close friend. He not only helped me with the stressful things like finding accommodation and sorting out my German paperwork but also showed me how to enjoy the city. Thanks to him, I’ve explored amazing hiking trails and gotten to know the best places around Trier.”

For Veterans: Giving Back and Growing Together

If you’ve already been in Germany for six months or longer, you can become a Veteran Buddy. This role allows you to share your experience, help a newcomer overcome the challenges you once faced, and build international friendships along the way.

As a Veteran, you’ll also benefit:

  • You’ll gain valuable intercultural skills and improve your communication.
  • You’ll earn a volunteer certificate of 6 hours, something that can strengthen your job or scholarship applications.
  • Want to do more? Become a Local Leader in the program and receive a 12-hour certificate.

Vanessa, a Veteran in Schmalkalden, reflected on her journey:

“Overall, I really enjoyed engaging with the Newbies. Everyone was friendly, open, and eager to share their culture, which made the exchange both enriching and enjoyable. It was also a great opportunity for me to improve my English skills with their support. Additionally, it was fascinating to connect with people from different countries, gain international perspectives, and develop intercultural communication skills while building meaningful connections.”

How the Program Works

The Buddy Program is structured to ensure meaningful, supportive, and fun interactions. Here’s how it goes:

  1. Application Process: Visit our website and complete the Buddy Program application form before September 14, 2025, 23:59 CEST.
  2. Matching: After applications close, DEGIS pairs Newbies and Veterans based on their cities, ensuring local connections.
  3. Activities: For six months, you and your buddy will meet, explore, and support each other. Activities can be as simple as grabbing coffee, going to a student event, or tackling bureaucracy together.
  4. Monthly Check-ins: DEGIS runs quick surveys to see how the program is going, encouraging buddies to share pictures of their activities.

This setup ensures that everyone gets the most out of their experience and feels part of a vibrant community.

A Unique Experience in Germany

The Buddy Program is much more than a practical support system; it’s a way to build a home away from home. For Newbies, it makes the first months less stressful and more exciting. For Veterans, it’s a chance to give back and create lasting international friendships.

If I could go back to my first semester in Germany, I would have joined in a heartbeat. Today, I’m glad so many international students have this chance.

👉 Register now and take the first step towards an unforgettable experience in Germany! Applications close on September 14, 2025, at 23:59 CEST.

P.S – This year’s DEGIS Buddy Program webinar recording is now on our YouTube! Take a look here 

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Thriving, Not Just Surviving: A Queer International’s Journey with Mithil Barath

At DEGIS, we believe in sharing the real, unfiltered stories of international students shaping Germany’s future. In this interview, Mithil Barath opens up about his journey as a queer international—from rural East Germany to building inclusive spaces and raising a family in Cologne.

1. You’ve had quite a journey—moving to Germany as a student, staying to work, and now building a life and family here. How has your experience as a queer international shaped your personal and professional path in Germany?

Mithil: My journey to Germany wasn’t planned, it was love that brought me here. I had been living in Hungary, and when my now-husband and I decided to build a future together, I moved to Schmalkalden, a small town in eastern Germany, to start university. That transition wasn’t easy. The culture shock was real, and as a queer international, I often felt invisible. The social climate was conservative, and there wasn’t much space for people like me.

But I didn’t let that stop me. I carved out my own space, both personally and professionally. Eventually, I co-founded the DEGIS chapter in Schmalkalden, creating a platform for international and queer students like myself who were craving connection.

Now, we’ve moved to Cologne, a city that feels much more like home. It’s where I work, raise my twin baby girls (yes, twins!), and finally feel like I can breathe a little easier. But the journey through visas, marriage registration, and endless paperwork? A whole challenge on its own.

Still, every obstacle has made me stronger and more determined to create spaces where queer internationals aren’t just surviving, but thriving. My story isn’t the exception. It’s one of many. And it’s time we make that more visible.

2. Can you tell us about a moment—within DEGIS or beyond—when you truly felt seen and supported as a queer person in Germany? What made that moment meaningful for you?

Mithil: When I started university in Schmalkalden, there was no space for internationals, let alone queer students. I looked around and realized no one was coming to create that space for us. So, I reached out to multiple organizations, and DEGIS was the one that answered.

That response changed everything. With a few other students, I helped launch DEGIS Schmalkalden. We started small, but it grew into something powerful and today, it has over 50 volunteers and a full board. From that, we built clubs and safe spaces for marginalized voices, including one specifically focused on queer expression and the arts.

That moment of being seen, of seeing others show up and build alongside me, was deeply meaningful. For the first time, I felt like I wasn’t just existing in Germany. I was part of something. I was helping to shift the narrative.

3. You’ve led some important initiatives within DEGIS. What motivated you to bring LGBTQAP+ topics into our network, and what impact do you think these initiatives have had so far?

Mithil: What motivated me was simple: silence is never neutral. If we’re not talking about queer topics—especially in international spaces—we’re ignoring a huge part of people’s lived experiences.

I brought LGBTQAP+ issues into DEGIS because I didn’t want another student to feel the kind of isolation I once did. That meant organizing safe groups for expression, pushing for visibility during Pride, and making space for people to share their stories with no filter, no shame.

The impact? It’s in the people who message me after an event saying, “I finally felt seen today.” It’s in the growing number of queer internationals stepping into leadership. It’s in DEGIS showing up—not just during Pride Month—but throughout the year. There’s still so much to do, but we’ve made real progress. And I’m proud to be part of that shift.

4. In your view, how does Germany compare to other places when it comes to creating a safe and inclusive environment for queer internationals? Where are we doing well, and where is there still work to do?

Mithil: I’ve traveled across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, and while I hoped Germany would feel more inclusive, the reality is mixed. Yes, cities like Cologne and Berlin offer more visibility and access. But move outside those bubbles, and it’s a different story.

In smaller towns—especially in the East, being queer and international can still feel like an uphill battle. You’re navigating cultural differences, legal systems, and social stigma all at once.

Germany has made some progress: healthcare is accessible, same-sex marriage is legal, and Pride is celebrated in major cities. But legal rights don’t always translate into lived equality, especially for trans people, BIPOC queer folks, and non-EU internationals.

If Germany wants to live up to its progressive image, it needs to do more than tolerate queer people, it needs to actively support and protect them. Right now, that support is uneven at best.

5. Looking ahead, what kind of support or changes would you love to see from communities like DEGIS to better uplift and empower queer international students and professionals?

Mithil: I’d love to see DEGIS create more dedicated spaces for queer students—spaces that aren’t just inclusive but intentional. We need recurring events, mentorship programs, mental health support, and collaborations with LGBTQ+ and trans-led NGOs.

Let’s not wait for Pride Month to show support. Let’s weave queer inclusion into everything, from career panels to leadership programs. Let’s fund projects by queer internationals. Let’s invite them to lead, not just participate.

The truth is, queer internationals carry unique strengths: adaptability, courage, creativity. But we also carry unique burdens. DEGIS has the platform to be a true ally, not just in words, but in action.

And I do believe it’s moving in that direction. I’ve seen it. I’ve helped shape it. But let’s keep pushing, bigger, bolder, and with all the love and fire we’ve got.

Want to be part of a community that celebrates you—just as you are?

Whether you’re looking for connection, leadership opportunities, or simply a safe space to grow, DEGIS is here for international students and professionals across Germany.

Join DEGIS today and help us build a more inclusive, supportive future, together!

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Why Volunteering Is More than Giving Back

Written by Nur Banu Yavuz

Volunteering is often associated with giving time, energy, and effort. And while this is certainly part of the story, there’s another side that doesn’t get talked about enough: what you gain by volunteering.

I see volunteering not just as a contribution, but as meaningful change. Whether you’re new to a place or want to deepen your roots there, volunteering can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Let’s start with the basics. DEGIS is a community that supports international students in Germany—through events, reliable information, and most importantly, a sense of belonging. But it’s not only built for international students, it’s also built by them. Volunteers are at the center of everything we do.

What does it really mean to volunteer?

When people think of volunteering, they often imagine helping at events, sending emails, or managing logistics behind the scenes. These things happen—but they’re just the surface. What’s really underneath is growth.

You learn how to lead a team, organize initiatives, and solve problems in real time. You find your voice in a new country or in a new context. You shape the culture and values of your own community. This is leadership in action, and it’s very real.

At DEGIS, volunteers often step into roles where they can actively influence how a local City Chapter works. From organizing language meetups to planning nationwide conferences, there’s a space for your ideas—and the support to bring them to life.

And the best part? You don’t need to come with a long list of experiences. DEGIS values curiosity, commitment, and collaboration. If you’re open to learning, there’s a place for you here.

Personally, my journey with volunteering began before I even arrived in Germany. Back in Turkey, I was involved in various initiatives—from participating in a social responsibility club in high school to actively working with a youth foundation fighting erosion and promoting environmental sustainability.

These experiences shaped the way I see the world and taught me early on that meaningful change often starts with small, consistent actions. They also made me more confident and ready to take initiative when I joined DEGIS—because volunteering had already shown me what it means to be part of something bigger than myself.

Tangible Benefits That Actually Matter

I believe that time and energy deserve to be appreciated, and one way to show it is through access to benefits that make a real difference in our daily lives as international students.

When you join DEGIS as a volunteer, you get access to special discounts on platforms and services you likely already use—or plan to. This includes language courses, online learning tools, event tickets, and merchandise (you can find the full list on our website).

These discounts aren’t just random perks. They’re carefully selected to support your personal, academic, and professional journey in Germany.

Leadership Without Pressure

Leadership doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means collaborating, experimenting, asking questions, and growing together. Whether you feel more comfortable behind the scenes or stepping up to lead a team, there’s space to explore at your own pace.

You’ll also be part of a national network of other volunteers navigating the same learning processes. We support each other—through peer exchange, check-ins, and national calls where everyone has a voice.

Volunteering That Fits into Your Life

As a student in Germany, I know life can be unpredictable. Between part-time jobs, studying, bureaucracy, and just figuring things out, it can feel overwhelming to commit to something new. That’s why volunteer roles at DEGIS are flexible and mindful of our responsibilities.

You get to decide how involved you want to be and what kind of role suits you best—whether it’s joining an ongoing project, helping out at events, or taking the lead in shaping something new.

A Community That Feels Like Home

For many of us, moving to Germany can be a confusing, even isolating experience. DEGIS is a space for reorientation—a place to meet others on the same journey, to feel connected, and to build something meaningful together.

So if you’re thinking about getting more involved, this is your sign. You can start small. You can start today. Join DEGIS—and let’s do something together.

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From Experience: 6 Ways to Spot Accommodation Scams in Germany

Written by Stefanie Herta

Moving to Germany as an international student is a thrilling and once-in-a-lifetime experience — but let’s be honest: finding accommodation can be one of the most stressful parts of the journey.

Between high demand, unfamiliar rental processes, language barriers, and fast-moving online listings, it can be difficult to know which offers are genuine and which ones should make you pause.

Earlier this year, Prashant from the DEGIS Munich City Chapter and I were interviewed by DER SPIEGEL about our experiences navigating the German accommodation market as international students — a challenge many newcomers continue to face.

Drawing from my background as a former DAAD marketing professional and DAAD-funded international student mentor, I’ve supported countless students through Germany’s complex rental landscape. Now, I’m sharing some of the most important lessons again.

Unfortunately, accommodation scams remain a growing concern, especially on fast-moving platforms like Facebook, WG-Gesucht, and Kleinanzeigen. These scams are often cleverly disguised, emotionally exhausting, and can lead to serious financial loss.    

In this article, I’ll be providing you with clear, practical guidance on spotting accommodation scams, avoiding common pitfalls, and staying safe during your search.

So, here are some of the most common red flags to watch out for when looking for accommodation in Germany:

1. You are asked to pay before you have properly verified the accommodation

Stop! Don’t transfer a cent until the keys are in your hand, even if you have signed a contract.

A major red flag is being asked to pay a deposit, first month’s rent, “reservation fee,” or any other advance payment before you have properly verified the listing, viewed the accommodation, received a legitimate contract, and confirmed who you are dealing with.

Exceptions to this include the public housing “Studierendenwerk” or certain reputable private student accommodation options.

2. The photos look too good to be true

  • If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of the photos, save (or screenshot!) the photo and upload it to Google Reverse Image Search.
    • This allows you to see if the photo has been used in other, unrelated listings with different addresses.
      •  My experience: I was looking at a lovely apartment in Berlin from a Facebook post, and when I did a reverse Google search, I noticed the photo originated from a property in FRANCE, not Germany!

3. The “Landlord” refuses to meet or show the accommodation

Landlords and main tenants alike must offer you the chance to view and inspect the accommodation before signing any contracts.

Common excuses involve claiming they are currently overseas or too occupied with work to provide a viewing.

If they continue to refuse, even after their “trip”, that’s a red flag! Consider elsewhere.

4. “No Anmeldung”  = No possibility to officially register the address yourself

If a listing says “no Anmeldung”, take it seriously.

There are a few reasons why an apartment or WG doesn’t offer “Anmeldung”:

  1. They are subletting the apartment or room illegally.

    For example, someone else could be officially registered at the accommodation, but wishes to rent it out without the landlord’s permission. 

  2. They have already reached the maximum number of people legally allowed within the WG/apartment.
  3. The property offers short-term hotel/hostel-style accommodation that doesn’t qualify for registration.
    This is not a red flag, but NOT a long-term option either!

Wait, what is “Anmeldung”?

Anmeldung is the official registration of your address in Germany, and it’s mandatory for anyone living here longer than a few months.

When you move into your new accommodation (even if shared), you must register your address at the local Bürgeramt (citizen’s office).

This process is called “Anmeldung”, and you’ll receive a confirmation document called the “Meldebescheinigung”.

  • Without it, you are unable to apply for your visa, obtain a German tax ID or open certain German bank accounts!
    •  Thus always ask if “Anmeldung” is available!

5. The monthly rent seems too good to be true

While there are, on occasion, more affordable options, these are harder to come by nowadays. 

  • Sometimes, scammers will reduce the “price”  to coax desperate accommodation searchers into ignoring fishy details of their listing!
  • So, be sure to view other apartment/WG prices in the area of the listing first!

6. The contract appears strange or unprofessional

Contract details matter.

  • Obvious errors in formatting or German: Broken sentences, missing legal terms (a note on this soon), or strange word choices in your accommodation contract can indicate the listing was hastily put together without proper understanding (or rather, neglect!) of housing laws.
  • Good To Know:
    • If the contract is in German, try using DeepL or ChatGPT for a helpful translation!
    • Check out the Deutsche Mieterbund for an English version of a typical Rental Contract to compare!

So… Where Should You Search?

Navigating the right platforms can make all the difference in finding trustworthy listings. 

Most importantly: do not let pressure make you ignore your instincts.

  • If something feels rushed, unclear, or emotionally manipulative, pause.
    A real housing opportunity should not require you to risk your safety, money, or legal registration.

I hope this helps you feel more prepared — and I wish you the very best in finding your new home in Germany!

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New Year, New Goals: Practical Strategies to Build Lasting Habits in 2025

Written by Stefanie Herta (MA. Psychologie, DEGIS Marketing & Community Manager)

So… 2025 Is Here! How Do You Feel?

Being an international student can often feel like a whirlwind of new experiences, responsibilities, and cultural surprises.

With all that happening, it’s quite easy to lose track of personal goals or to set lofty resolutions that slip away by February!

Therefore, now is the best time to share with you some gentle, tried-and-tested strategies on how we can set meaningful goals and develop daily habits that truly endure, helping us create a brighter and more balanced 2025!

Reflect on the Past Year

Just like checking your progress at the end of a semester, taking a moment to reflect on the previous year can work wonders for clarity and motivation:

Celebrate Wins: Perhaps you passed a challenging German exam or landed a part-time job amid a busy schedule, it’s time to recognize your hard work!

Identify Challenges: Were language barriers or homesickness more overwhelming than expected? Pinpointing and becoming aware of these stressors is a powerful way to address them.

Gather Insights: Consider what could be improved. Could you manage your time differently or reach out for help sooner? These insights also pave the way for healthier, more realistic goals.

Craft SMART Goals

When you’re juggling lectures, part-time work, and maybe even language classes, vague goals like “I’ll do better this year” might not be enough. 

Instead, aim for SMART goals:

  1. Specific: Pinpoint what you want to achieve. “Attend one networking event per month” is more tangible than “network more.”
  2. Measurable: Keep track of your progress. If improving your German is a priority, aim for “completing one chapter of a German coursebook per week.”
  3. Achievable: Ensure your goal fits your current reality. Taking on too much at once can lead to exhaustion, so balance is key!
  4. Relevant: Align each goal with your true priorities, whether they’re academic, career-focused, or related to personal well-being.
  5. Time-Bound: Give yourself a deadline or timeframe. Finishing a particular project before the next semester begins can offer the structure you need.

Breaking objectives down in this way helps make them feel less daunting and more within reach.

Break Big Dreams into Tiny Steps

Sometimes, goals can seem as daunting as mastering German grammar (I’ve been there!). One helpful approach is to divide them into manageable chunks:

  • Sub-Goals: If your main focus is to publish a research paper, start by committing to a daily or weekly word count—like 200 words a day.

  • Celebrate Mini-Milestones: Congratulate yourself when you complete the literature review or perfect your first draft. These small successes fuel your motivation.

  • Prioritize Tasks: Each week, choose the top 2–3 tasks you must accomplish. This keeps you on track even when life is hectic.

Build Habits That Stick

Reaching your goals often comes down to creating small, consistent habits. Here’s how to develop routines that work seamlessly with your lifestyle:

  1. Start Small: Try adding a 10-minute study session to your evening routine instead of forcing a two-hour block out of the blue.
  2. Use Habit Stacking: Already cook dinner regularly? Organize your desk or create tomorrow’s to-do list while your meal simmers.
  3. Create an Environment for Success: Keep textbooks and notes in an orderly, well-lit space. Simplify your “digital space” by minimizing distracting notifications.
  4. Set Reminders: Use alarms, sticky notes, or apps to help you stay consistent—especially during busy exam periods.
  5. Find Accountability: Partner up with a study buddy or join an online community for mutual encouragement.

Overcome Hurdles & Stay Motivated

As an international student, you might face extra challenges: visa appointments, cultural differences, or simply missing home. Here’s how to navigate those obstacles:

  • Plan for Setbacks: Life rarely follows a perfect script. If you miss a study session or fall behind on a project, schedule a time to catch up when you can.

  • Stay Flexible: Perhaps you discover your internship clashes with your class schedule. Adjust your plans as needed without abandoning your overarching goals.
  • Revisit Your ‘Why’: If you’re feeling discouraged, remember why you chose this path—maybe it’s earning a global degree, gaining international exposure, or pursuing a dream career.
  • Reward Yourself: Small gestures go a long way. Treat yourself to a favorite dessert or plan a relaxing weekend activity when you reach a milestone.

Track & Adapt

Just like in academics, regular check-ins help you stay on course:

  • Use a Journal or App: Make notes of your daily or weekly progress. This way, you can spot patterns and adjust where necessary.

  • Set Regular Check-Ins: Every month or quarter, reflect on what’s working and whether you need to refine your approach.

  • Visualize Success: A vision board or a simple mental image of your future self (such as graduating with honors or landing your ideal job) can be remarkably motivating.

Progress Over Perfection

Finally, it’s important to remember that growth is a journey, not a final destination:

  • Practice Self-Compassion: Feeling overwhelmed is perfectly normal. You’re juggling a lot, so treat yourself kindly!

  • Learn & Adapt: Each challenge, from dealing with bureaucracy to managing cultural differences, builds resilience and enhances your story.

Concluding Thoughts

A new year brings fresh possibilities that become tangible when we set precise, achievable goals and strengthen them with supportive daily habits.

Each small achievement moves us forward, so let’s celebrate our progress and keep striving for the life we envision!

Are you ready to connect with a supportive community and access helpful resources?

Become a free community member with DEGIS! You’ll find guidance, events, and a network of fellow international students who understand your journey.

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Winter in Germany: No, It’s Not as Dull as Everyone Says!

Written by Tonya @gravity_tonya

What is so ‘bad’ about the German winter? I asked my friends from different countries and got opposite answers:

  • People from warmer climates (South Africa, Pakistan, India) said ‘it’s cold and dark’
  • People from colder climates (Ukraine, Sweden, Finland) mentioned that ‘there’s no snow!’

And this made me realize – we all focus on what’s missing. Coming from Belarus, I am used to the lack of daylight hours but terribly miss the *real* snow. My friends from warmer countries can’t come to terms with the temperature, but are excited for even a couple snowflakes haha.

So, why focus on what’s not there when you can enjoy what is? The grass is greener where you water it, so here are my tips on making the most out of your German winter.

Christmas Markets (obviously!)

Sadly, they don’t last too long and you’ll have to find other activities for January and February. But while the festive season is still here, you need to try my personal delicious favorites:

  • Hot cocoa (with Baileys if you drink)
  • Reibekuchen (amazing potato pancakes)
  • Chocolate glazed strawberries
  • Baumkuchen (Trdelnik)
  • Crepes
  • Any Wurst mit Pommes (Sausage with Fries)

Traveling

(after the exams are done and you can finally put that 49 Euro-Ticket to use)

  • Bavaria is perfect for winter if you want to see snowy nature
  • Cologne in February (celebrate one of the main German traditions – Karneval!)
  • Check which nearby coutries you can visit with your 49 Euro-Ticket (which is usually included in your semester ticket!) (sometimes neigbouring cities can be included in the ticket range – like Venlo in the Netherlands)

Cozy Night-Ins

When on some days the weather gets too cold and the energy levels just aren’t there, I love staying in – but with a twist. I invite friends over and we cook something together, like a home-made pizza, or bake gingerbread cookies. Get some cocoa, milk, choose a cozy movie – and enjoy the time with frieds, despite the cold outside.

Sauna / Thermal Spa

What can be better than a little spa-retreat in the middle of the cold day? Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to break the bank! There are a lot of budget friendly options with student discounts or even specific deals for a special ‘student’ day of the week. I enjoyed myself in Aachen like that (Carolus Thermen have an amazign pool + sauna area for only 18-20 EUR for 3,5 hours!)

Classic German Movies

I love cinema and want to really dedicate my time to studying German this semester break – so why not combine both? Join me in this challenge.

Here are some of the classic German films on my list:

  • Drei Haselnüsse für Aschenbrödel (Three Wishes for Cinderella) – a beloved fairy tale movie.
  • Oh Boy – for a wintry slice of Berlin life.
  • Das Wunder von Bern – a heartwarming post-war story with snowy vibes.

I am sure there are a million other cool things to do this winter!
Some of which we’ll be covering in the upcoming ‘Winter Wellness & New Year Planning’ webinar with Caro from DEGIS National team. Join us on December 18th and let’s break the ‘German winter’ stereotype!