Author: Stefanie Herta

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

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

So… the new year is here! How do you feel?

Being an international student can often feel like life is 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—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—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!

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Life as an International Student in a German-Taught Master’s Program

Preparations Before the Leap

Embarking on the adventure of permanently migrating to Germany and studying psychology in a German-taught program as an International Student had been a dream I held for almost a decade. My passion for immersing myself in a new culture began with my first student exchange experience in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) region during high school.

Determined to continue this journey, I completed a DAAD-scholarship-supported language course at the Universität zu Köln and participated in another exchange program at the Universität Hamburg a few years later. Concurrently, I continued to expand on my German language skills at my university in Sydney, Australia, while working for the DAAD.

However, amidst the dull and restrictive happenings of the pandemic in 2021, I realized it was finally time to make the leap from Australia to Germany. Pursuing my passion for psychology with a Master’s program and challenging myself in ways I had never imagined was just as I always dreamed. Yet, the reality of being the only international student in my German-taught course brought unexpected struggles that I hadn’t fully anticipated.

Stepping into the Unknown

The first day at university felt like walking into a different world, starting just a few days after my arrival with a new home and jetlag on top! Surrounded by new faces and engaging in complex conversations entirely in German, I was both excited and challenged by the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the language and culture. Although I held a C1 level in German, the fast-paced lectures and nuanced academic discussions initially felt daunting. I remember sitting in the lecture hall about to hold my first presentation, and I was shaking in my boots!

Academic Pressures & Social Struggles

Studying psychology in a language that isn’t my first added an extra layer of complexity to every assignment and exam. The specialized terminology, the depth of theoretical concepts, and the expectation to engage critically in discussions made the experience quite challenging. However, these challenges motivated me further to push against my fears and enhance my skills to thrive in the German academic environment.

All these academic pressures were further intensified by being the only international student in my German-taught Master’s program. While I received considerable empathy, kindness and support from fellow students during my unique journey, there wasn’t a single person in my cohort who could fully relate to my specific experiences, talk about being the lone wolf, right?

Discovering DEGIS

In my quest to find a sense of community who actually understood and could relate to my personal journey, I discovered DEGIS!  DEGIS is Germany’s largest International Student community, and offers the chance to dedicate ourselves to meaningful projects, connect with like-minded peers, and develop practical skills in areas like marketing, event management, and leadership. Volunteering with DEGIS can provide a supportive network and help bridge the gap between your academic life and personal well-being.

Additionally, after two semesters, you can earn an official certificate that not only acknowledges your dedication but also enhances your CV in Germany. Being part of the DEGIS community has been instrumental in building lasting relationships and enriching the international student experience, not only for myself but also for others!

Enhancing my German

Furthermore, I sought ways to enhance my German beyond the C1 level. I immersed myself in the language by attending local meetups with other language learners, speaking as much German as possible with my fellow native speaker students, reading German literature and diving into German news on politics and cultural happenings. If you want some cool tips on German language resources,  click here– and don’t forget to join Aarushi & Dhruv in their DEGIS German Learning Webinar 14. Nov 2024 at 7PM CET!

Just Do It!

Above all, taking action in your new life in Germany without hesitation is key!
Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember that each challenge you overcome strengthens your resilience. I firmly believe that facing your fears front on and trying new things will be the biggest deciding factor for success for your journey in Germany!

Did you know? Volunteering with DEGIS can help you support meaningful causes, build valuable skills and connect with your fellow International Students! Not only this, you’ll earn an official certificate after just 2 semesters, perfect for your new CV in Germany. Register here! 

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Volunteer with DEGIS & Elevate Your Experience in Germany

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!

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All You Need To Know About the DEGIS Buddy Program!

Buddy Program Banner

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

The DEGIS Buddy Program is back this Winter!

Starting your studies in a new country is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a challenging experience. That’s where the DEGIS Buddy Program comes in. Since its inception in 2021, this program has helped over 1000 international students navigate their first months in Germany, providing invaluable support and creating lasting friendships. Whether you’re new to Germany or have been here for a while, the DEGIS Buddy Program offers unique opportunities tailored to your needs.

For Newbies: Navigating Your First Months

If you’re an international student just starting your studies in Germany this Winter Semester, the DEGIS Buddy Program is designed to support you. As a “newbie,” you’ll be paired with a more experienced student who can guide you through the initial stages of your German journey. From understanding public transportation to navigating university systems, your buddy will be there to help you settle in and make the most of your first months in Germany.

For Veterans: Giving Back and Growing Together

If you’ve been in Germany for at least six months, you have the opportunity to become a “veteran” buddy. This role allows you to share your experiences and help a new international student overcome the challenges you once faced. By becoming a veteran buddy, you’ll not only strengthen your local community but also earn a volunteer certificate of 6 hours, which can enhance your job and scholarship applications. Additionally, if you’re interested in taking on more responsibility, you can become a local leader in the Buddy Program and earn a 12-hour certificate!

 

What Kind of Support Can Newbies Expect to Receive?

Veterans are expected to be the newbies’ go-to guides for making life easier.

They’ll help tackle the tricky stuff, like getting through the German bureaucracy—including registering your address Anmeldung, setting up a bank account, or figuring out health insurance.

Around campus, they’ll show the ropes: where to study, how to sign up for exams, and where to grab cheap groceries or find helpful services. Plus, veterans will clue newbies in on all the fun student life activities—clubs, events, and maybe even the best spots for a night out.

Most importantly, veterans are there to be a friend, helping settle in, meet new people, and making newbies feel at home in their new city.

How the Program Works

The DEGIS Buddy Program is structured to ensure meaningful and supportive interactions. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how it works:

  1. Application Process: Visit our website and navigate to the Buddy Program Page to find the application form. Applications are open until September 9th, 23:59 CEST.
  2. Matching: After the application deadline, the DEGIS team will match newbies and veterans based on their cities to ensure geographical compatibility.
  3. Activities and Engagement: For six months, you and your buddy will participate in various activities together. These activities are designed to foster a strong connection and provide practical support.
  4. Monthly Check-ins: To ensure the program’s success, we will conduct monthly surveys where buddies can upload pictures of their activities together. This helps us track engagement and provide any necessary support.

A Truly Unique Experience in Germany

The DEGIS Buddy Program offers a unique and enriching experience for both newbies and veterans. It’s not just about support—it’s about building a community, creating memories, and fostering cross-cultural friendships that last a lifetime.

Register now!

Now’s your chance to take part in Germany’s largest Buddy Program initiative! Register for the DEGIS Buddy Program by September 9th, 23:59 CEST, and take the first step towards an unforgettable journey in Germany. Click the link to apply today!

Join us in making the DEGIS Buddy Program a cornerstone of your German adventure!

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Strategic Stress Management for Exams and Beyond

International Students on a Day Trip

By Stefanie Herta – DEGIS National Marketing & Community Manager

Being an International Student can sometimes feel like living life on a rollercoaster. Therefore, I wish to share with you some tested stress management strategies to thrive during exam season and beyond!

As a graduate of Psychology, Commerce and an international student here in Germany just like you, I’ve had my fair share of stressful exams! From having essay-style exams in German, to presenting complex topics to a panel of examiners on psychological topics, the ways that exam season can stress us out are endless. However, we also face unique challenges that our local peers might not experience, and are often invisible to those around us. In fact, exams are just the tip of the iceberg.

Our Stress Iceberg

The “Stress Iceberg” of international students runs deep:

Beneath the surface, we are faced with…

Stress Iceberg of International Students

…and that’s just to name a few of them.

The Stress Continuum

The good news is, have the power to not only manage stress, but shape it to our advantage – turning “bad” stress, into “good”!

stress continuum chart for managing stress

  • Good Stress (Eustress): Motivates us, enhances performance, and provides excitement.
    • For example: Feeling somewhat nervous or “hyped up” before a competition can help you perform better. A natural and balanced release of adrenaline improves performance and focus.
  • Bad Stress (Distress): Leads to anxiety, decreased performance, and health problems. Often chronic
    • For example: An intense study and work schedule with a lack of resources can be particularly harmful.

Stress exists on a continuum, and having the right stress management strategies can turn stress into your favor. So how do we stay clear of the “danger zone” and manage stress during exams (and beyond)?

Stress Management Techniques

Here are some practical techniques against (dis)stress that you can implement right now:

Focus on What You Can Manage and Prioritize

As frustrating as it can be, we can’t control everything. However, we can identify and focus on the areas of our lives where we have the most control, and take direct action.

  • For example: Holding a speech in front of a large audience. By only focusing on preparing your speech, you can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.
Reach Out for Support & Mentorship

You deserve all the support you can get. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others such as friends, family, tutors or professional services. Tackling stressors together tends to be much easier!

Take Strategic Breaks

Regular breaks help reset your system and prevent burnout.

  • Pomodoro Method: A widely popular method invented by a university student, Pomodoro allows you to increase your attention and prevent procrastination.
    • Simply set a timer for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break.
    • After 4 “Pomodoros” take a longer 15-30 minute break.
    • (Of course this can be adapted to your needs)
  • Here’s a Pomodoro timer!
Tidying Your Study Space & Online World
  • Tidy your study space: Counter distractions and long sitting-hours by organizing your study space. A tidy room is a tidy mind!
  • Tidy your online world: Unfortunately, the increase in toxic social media content can compound on our stress levels.
    • Filter your followers list and adjust your content settings to maintain a peaceful day!
Make Studying Rewarding
  • Try to treat yourself to something you enjoy after you achieve a study or work goal.
    • Examples: Buying a desert, meeting with friends, watching a movie…
  • Have you ever seen that meme “getting that dopamine hit from ticking off my to do list”? There’s truth to it, actually!
    • Dopamine is triggered in the brain when accomplishing/finalizing your goals.
Consider Your Sleep Chronotype
  • When it comes to sleep, “one size does not fit all”!
  • Are you a night owl, or an early bird?
    • Each of us has a unique “chronotype” (our sleep body clock), and this influences our energy levels throughout the day.
      • For example: Night owls tend to have more energy towards the evening, and can excell at writing and other creative activities during this time.
      • Therefore, some night owls purposely schedule basic tasks earlier on in the day, but leave term paper writing until the evening!
  • Rearranging your study schedule to match your chronotype can significantly improve your productivity and manage stress.
Increase Self-Compassion
    • Be kind to yourself by:
      • avoiding comparisons with others, particularly local peers who may not be going through the same struggles.
      • thinking about your past triumphs and acknowledging how far you have come.

By embracing these practical strategies and prioritizing self-care, we can transform exam stress into a manageable and even motivating part of your academic journey.

 Become a community member with DEGIS (free) for lots of support and resources to help you thrive as an international student in Germany!