Author: Kaushik Srinivasan

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How Volunteering with DEGIS Became My Anchor in Germany

Finding My Initial Footing with DEGIS

When I first arrived in Germany as an international student, I joined DEGIS as a beneficiary of their buddy program, and with volunteering set in mind. If this is the first time you’ve heard about DEGIS, it is Germany’s coolest community of international students and talent, and the buddy program is one of the first support systems offered to newcomers.

You get paired with someone who has been here longer and can help you figure out bureaucracy, city life, and where to actually meet people. 

It was more useful than I expected initially. My buddy helped me navigate the early chaos of settling in. From Anmeldung to bank account, it helped me overcome all the hurdles. More importantly, Germany started to feel a little less unfamiliar with that.

 

Saying Yes to Volunteering!

However, just a few months later, I got the opportunity to volunteer for the DEGIS Berlin team. I joined as a volunteer in the partnerships team. I had a vague idea of what it would look like, filled with meetings, tasks, reaching out to universities and like-minded organisations, a hectic undertaking. The reality, however, was more demanding, and also more rewarding. 

I worked with a team of international people who were also figuring out Germany, being part of the same Berlin community, and also putting real effort into building something meaningful for the community. The shared context reduces a lot of friction. There’s less performance, more actual collaboration.

In those six months, I learnt: Collaboration in an international environment, how to pitch ideas and approach stakeholders, how to build things from scratch, and how to function in a team where everyone’s a volunteer with their own lives running in parallel.

The Jump to the National Team

After six months with DEGIS Berlin, I got a chance to work with the DEGIS national team as a Community Operations Working Student. 

I still think about the arc of it. From someone needing help navigating the landscape of Germany, to now helping run the infrastructure that supports people in the exact same situation, I have treaded an amazing path. It has been a surreal experience and a truly amazing journey. 

The national team is different in scope. More moving parts, wider reach, being part of a much bigger picture. But the core of my journey in DEGIS has remained the same, i.e., making Germany more accessible for international students and talent trying to settle here, helping them find a community. 

What Volunteering has Actually Given Me

Through DEGIS, I’ve met amazing people across Germany, including students, working professionals, people building their own organisations, and people searching for a community to belong to. Some of them are now friends. Others have opened doors I did not know existed when I first arrived here.

The skills I learned surprised me. Being part of the Partnerships team in a volunteer organisation pushed me to think outside the box, work with limited resources, and still produce meaningful results. You cannot fake your way through that. It sharpens your thinking and your instincts.

Working with a larger team and collaborating with presidents of various City Chapters helped me understand the ground realities in different settings. It trained me to identify problems, develop actionable solutions, and adapt to different situations.

And then there is something harder to put into words. You could call it confidence, breaking out of your shell, or simply a sense of place. Taking on real responsibility in a country that is not your own, in a setup where nothing is guaranteed, changes how you carry yourself. I noticed it gradually, but the shift in perspective is real.

Why You Should Consider Volunteering With DEGIS

I am not going to tell you it is always easy. There were weeks where I was balancing my volunteering responsibilities with hectic coursework, and everything else that comes with student life in a new country, even more so after joining the national team. It takes actual time, effort, and energy. 

But here‘s what I would say to any international student and talent in Germany trying to find their footing: DEGIS is one of the best places for you to start; it has been for me. You start as someone who benefits from the community. If you stay and put in the effort, you become the part of the engine that runs it. 

You build a network that spans cities and fields. You pick up skills that your syllabus doesn‘t teach you. And you figure out slowly that you belong here too.

That shift has been groundbreaking for me, and I really think it would be for you as well! 

Not only do you get all these valuable benefits, you also get a certificate after just 2 semesters of volunteering which demonstrates your impact! Perfect for your CV and future employers.

So are you ready to volunteer? Find out more and click here to register!

Can’t wait to see you soon 🙂

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Finding Your People in Germany: How DEGIS Supports Students Everywhere This Winter Semester 2025

Written by Aarushi Goel
 MSc. International Business Management
 DEGIS Head of the Network

The start of the 2025 Winter Semester marked one of the most ambitious volunteer recruitment seasons in DEGIS history. As international student numbers continued to rise across Germany, DEGIS set out with a clear mission: to expand its presence, strengthen leadership in every type of city, big, small, and everything in between, and build a truly connected nationwide network.

This semester, DEGIS reached an active presence in over 60 cities, driven by volunteers committed to creating spaces where international students can survive, thrive, and vibe.

Each city comes with its own challenges for international students and thus you can find tailored solutions as a DEGIS volunteer as well as provide them to your fellow international students.

Big Cities, Bigger Networks: Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart & Beyond

Moving to a big German city sounds exciting, but many students quickly realize it can feel just as lonely as it is lively. Even though cities like Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart are full of events, opportunities, and endless things to do, it’s still hard to know where to begin. Students often arrive and feel lost in the crowd, unsure of where to meet others or how to build a real social circle. Do you feel the same?

DEGIS works to change that by creating warm, welcoming spaces where making friends doesn’t feel like another task on your to-do list. Through meetups, cultural celebrations, casual hangouts, and city explorations, students get a chance to settle in, meet people organically, and feel supported from their very first weeks. A big city can feel overwhelming, but with DEGIS, it becomes a place where students can thrive, not just survive

Small Cities, Big Ownership: Schmalkalden, Bonn, Magdeburg, Bochum

Small cities come with their own challenges. Students often say their city is quiet, that there aren’t many events, and that it’s hard to meet fellow internationals. Without the buzz of a metropolitan area, many feel disconnected from campus life and from each other.

But small cities also have something powerful: the opportunity for students to take real ownership.

DEGIS chapters in these places often become tight-knit communities where students create their own activities, bring their cultures forward, and develop leadership skills along the way.

These chapters turn quiet cities into vibrant environments shaped by the students themselves. What they lack in size, they make up for with creativity, initiative, and community spirit.

The In-Between Challenge: Trier, Hof & Cities with Strong Universities but Limited Community Flow

Cities like Trier, Magdeburg and Hof have universities that offer helpful programs, cultural activities, and support systems. Yet many students still feel that their social life stays trapped inside the campus walls.

Even with good resources available, finding friends outside your faculty, connecting with students beyond your degree, or getting involved in wider initiatives can be difficult.

This is where DEGIS steps in by offering leadership roles, city-wide events, and intercity connections, DEGIS helps students break out of the campus bubble.

Students begin to interact across departments, collaborate with nearby chapters, and become part of a much wider national network. These chapters complement university offerings by opening doors to opportunities and friendships that go far beyond what campus alone can provide.

A Sustainable Network for the Future

Across all types of cities, DEGIS remains focused on building a long-lasting, supportive, and empowering network for international students. Volunteers aren’t just organizing events; they’re learning time management, leadership, teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution, essential skills that help them navigate both university and future careers.

Collaborations with international offices and external organizations strengthen this support system, giving students guidance and opportunities they might not have found on their own.

Students who stay active for two semesters receive certificates, exclusive webinars, and partner resources that recognize their growth, contribution, and dedication.

So come join DEGIS, where connections meet belonging and opportunities meet learning.

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How to Handle Exam Stress & Refocus Energy into Learning

By Aarushi Goel
Msc. International Business Management
DEGIS Head of the Network

Beginning your academic journey in Germany is an exhilarating experience, filled with opportunities for personal growth and professional development. However, as exam periods approach, it’s natural to feel a surge of stress and anxiety. Recognizing that these feelings are a common part of the academic process is the first step toward managing them effectively. By strategically managing your time, engaging in group learning, and maintaining a passion for your studies, you can channelise exam stress towards academic success.

Embrace Stress as a Natural Companion

Understand that stress is a natural response to any challenging situation. This can help reframe your perspective. Consultant clinical psychologist Dr. Beth Mosley emphasizes that anxiety, though natural and necessary for survival, becomes problematic when it leads to disproportionate fears and physiological stress responses. Reframing anxiety as a sign of engaging in brave actions rather than impending failure can be beneficial. Engaging in activities that calm the mind, such as talking to supportive friends or partaking in hobbies, and breaking the thought cycle with physical exercise, are essential strategies. Training the brain to focus on the present, through techniques like meditation or even coloring, can significantly help in managing anxiety. (see: THETIMES.CO.UK )

Master Time Management

  • Effective time management is crucial in reducing exam-related stress. Implementing structured study techniques can enhance productivity and ensure a balanced lifestyle.
  • Pomodoro Technique: This method involves working in focused intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by a short break. It helps maintain concentration and prevents burnout. Set a timer for 25 minutes, immerse yourself in your studies, then take a 5-minute break. After completing four cycles, reward yourself with a longer break. This way you would’ve studied for 100 minutes within 2 hours which is a focus rate of 82% (see: MUNICH-BUSINESS-SCHOOL.DE ).
  • Spaced Practice: Students are usually curious about learning new things and after that initial curiosity settles, one tends to wander off and put less emphasis towards revising the things learned. Distributing your study sessions over time promotes better retention than cramming. Plan your study schedule to revisit topics periodically, reinforcing your understanding and memory. (see: MUNICH-BUSINESS-SCHOOL.DE)
  • Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable objectives for each study session. Having clear goals provides direction and a sense of accomplishment as you progress.

Engage in Collaborative Learning

Studying with peers in a study group can offer diverse perspectives and enhance understanding. Collaborative learning not only deepens comprehension but also provides emotional support during stressful periods.

  • Form Study Groups: Regular group sessions allow for discussion, clarification of doubts, and sharing of resources. Explaining concepts to others can reinforce your own understanding.
  • Teach Back Method: Take turns teaching topics to group members. This technique ensures that you have a solid grasp of the material and can communicate it effectively.
  • Utilize University Resources: Many institutions offer study workshops and group study spaces. Participating in these can provide structured learning environments and opportunities to connect with fellow students.

Maintain Your Passion and Purpose

Remember the enthusiasm that brought you to Germany for your studies. Keeping sight of your goals can provide motivation and resilience during challenging moments during your exam preparation.

  • Reflect on Your Journey: Regularly take time to acknowledge your progress and achievements. Celebrating small victories can boost morale and reinforce your commitment.
  • Balance is Key: While dedication to studies is important, ensure you allocate time for hobbies and relaxation. Engaging in activities you love rejuvenates the mind and prevents burnout.
  • Seek Support When Needed: If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Universities often provide counseling services, and programs like the DEGIS Volunteer Program offer peer support to help you navigate academic and personal challenges.

Practice staying sharp during exam hours

Exam taking is a completely different thing from cognitive abilities, it is ultimately a blend of understanding of a particular concept, stress levels on the day of the exam and the events right before the exam. How often one gets confused about a topic due to a conversation with a fellow right before going to the room. Or per say, due to a habit of napping during the afternoon, and the misfortune of an exam being held at the same time. 

  • Practice writing or studying during the hours your exam is scheduled to take place, this can help maintain focus during the exam.
  • Communicate with peers right before exams but don’t let disagreements cloud your judgement or deprive you from what you know. 

In conclusion, while exam stress is a natural aspect of academic life, it doesn’t have to overshadow your experience. By adopting effective time management strategies, engaging in collaborative learning, and staying connected to your passion, you can navigate this period with confidence and resilience. Embrace the journey, support one another, and continue striving toward your academic and personal growth.

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Volunteer with DEGIS & Elevate Your Experience in Germany

Written by Aarushi Goel – Head of the Network

Becoming a volunteer is one of the most rewarding ways to enrich your time abroad!

As an international student in Germany, I found that joining DEGIS (German Association for International Students) not only helped me adjust to a new country but also allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Volunteering gave me the opportunity to connect with people from around the world and understand their individual and common challenges and relate to them on many levels.

Why Becoming a Volunteer With DEGIS Is So Valuable

DEGIS offers a platform where international students can come together, share experiences, and support one another. For me, this was a lifeline during the transition to a new life in Germany. The benefits of volunteering with DEGIS are numerous, and I want to highlight the ones that I found most impactful:

  • Building a Network: One of the biggest advantages is the chance to connect with students from all over the world. When I first joined, I was amazed by the sense of community DEGIS fosters. It’s not just about meeting people; it’s about creating lasting connections with others who are going through the same experiences, whether it’s struggling with accommodation, adjusting to a new culture, or navigating university and professional life.
  • Gaining Leadership Experience: It wasn’t just about being part of a team; but about stepping into a leadership role that challenges you to grow. Soon after joining, I became the VP of Projects for DEGIS Berlin. Even though I had no formal leadership experience, this role pushed me to learn how to manage a team, coordinate projects, and make decisions that had a real impact on our chapter. These are skills that will stay with me long after I leave Germany.
  • Developing Practical Skills: From organizing events to managing marketing campaigns, volunteering gave me hands-on experience. For example, I launched a project called CROSS CHECK, aimed at helping international students verify housing options before arriving in Germany. This experience taught me how to take an idea from concept to execution, involving project planning, marketing, and team management.
  • Making a Real Impact: One of the most fulfilling aspects of DEGIS is knowing that my efforts were directly helping others. Whether by organizing events to help students settle in or sitting in a big online group and discussing common resume drafting mistakes, my contributions have a tangible effect.

How DEGIS City Chapters Are Structured

Every DEGIS city chapter is structured with several departments, each providing unique opportunities to contribute. Here’s how the organization works:

  • City Chapter Leadership: Each city chapter is led by a President who acts as the bridge between the national DEGIS team and local volunteers. If you’re interested in leadership, this is where you can really grow. My own experience as VP taught me a lot about how to lead a team of people with different backgrounds towards common goals.
  • Events Team: Organizing social and self developmental events is at the heart of DEGIS. These events are designed to help international students adjust to life in Germany, offering support in areas like socializing, settling in, and personal growth.
  • Marketing Team: If you enjoy promoting initiatives and maintaining a strong online presence, this team is perfect. They are responsible for creating awareness of DEGIS events and making sure the wider international student community knows about the opportunities available to them.
  • HR and Business Development Teams: HR ensures that new volunteers are smoothly integrated into the organization, while the Business Development team builds relationships with external partners like universities and sponsors. These teams offer a fantastic chance to develop people management and networking skills.

Why You Should Get Involved As A Volunteer

If you’re an international student in Germany, I highly encourage you to consider volunteering with DEGIS. For me, it was the key to unlocking a deeper, more fulfilling experience in a foreign country. It’s an opportunity to not only help others but also grow as an individual. DEGIS gives you the platform to bring your ideas to life, take on leadership roles, and make a meaningful difference in the international student community. And hey, this also comes with a certificate upon completion of 2 semesters as a volunteer.

Through DEGIS, you’ll gain more than just volunteering experience — you’ll gain confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong connections. So take the leap as a DEGIS volunteer and have your journey in Germany taken to the next level!

Register as a DEGIS Volunteer Here!