I have classes that include lectures and seminars at university every day except for Fridays. On top of that, I spend time researching literature, preparing for and following up on classes. This means, as a student, you not only have to schedule time for being at university, but also for reading texts and meeting up with people for group work. It’s important to be aware that your workload can vary greatly depending on your degree program and how far into the semester you are. Some students’ exams and assignments take place throughout the semester, while others have many exams during the break. That’s why it’s crucial to find your own pace and practice good time management.

What tips can you give for organizing student life?

For group work, I’d recommend scheduling meetings directly before or after the seminar you’re collaborating on. You can meet at the university library or the other study spaces on campus. This helped me when I was studying by myself as well, because I always find it easier to concentrate at university than at home. On top of this, you can add variety to your study routine by grabbing a bite at the campus dining hall or taking breaks to relax on the campus lawns. Being productive is important, but it’s also important to socialize and balance studying with sufficient leisure time.

Another tip is to try something new. In my program, there are various learning formats, such as presentations, audiobooks, and films that you can experiment with to find what works best for you. That helps to ensure you don’t lose sight of the fun and creativity alongside the more serious side of academic work.

What do you like most about being a student?

I love having the freedom to create my own schedule. This allows me to focus on my own interests. This freedom extends to the lecture-free period, because you can write your term papers from anywhere in the world. I don’t think you’ll ever have as much time to travel flexibly as you do when you’re a student.

But this certainly creates challenges, doesn’t it?

One of the challenges is that the transition from the regular semester to the semester break is rough, every time. You have to switch from a tightly organized daily routine to a mode of independent, self-directed work. This transition requires discipline and proper planning. But you’ll get used to it over time.

How did you resolve this for yourself?

It’s always good to connect with others in similar situations. You can meet up to write or study together. I used to meet study friends at a café at a regular time, which helped me establish my own routine. If you do something fun together after studying, you’ll be even more motivated.

What do you like most about the University of Bremen?

The university is small enough that you always see the same people, so you can build relationships with your fellow students and teachers. In fact, I know all the lecturers from my institute. They make an effort in everything they do, whether it’s answering emails or preparing classes. I also like that all the important buildings, such as the library and the dining hall (Mensa), are on campus within walking distance. The university is a bit out of the way, but it’s close to the Unisee lake, Bürgerpark, and the Universum science museum.

Ersti Magazine

This text was published in the 2025/26 Ersti Magazine. As a first-semester student, you will receive helpful tips for starting your studies and the current semester. Find out directly from students at the University of Bremen where they like to learn on campus, what their day-to-day student life looks like, and what activities they are involved in. The magazine is available as a printed edition on campus and can be downloaded online as a PDF (in German only).