But beware: studying is a full-time job! Depending on the degree program, you will spend 20 to 30 hours a week at the university. In addition, there is the preparation and follow-up of courses, examinations, and writing papers, as well as reading and learning. In order to accommodate hobbies, part-time jobs, and friends in between, you need a good plan.

Tips for Self-Organization

1. Maintain an Overview

Get a weekly calendar – or a digital one – and enter all your appointments and deadlines, including your private ones.

2. Active Participation

Participate in lectures and seminars. In most cases, the handouts you receive are not enough. Prepare the learning content and sort the documents.

3. Plan out Examinations in Advance

Think carefully about when you want to take which exam. Start studying in time. It’s best to build up routines, for example by always working in the same room at the same time. Make your own plan for when you want to have achieved what. And remember: turn off your phone and take breaks.

4. Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to ask the Studierwerkstatt, the writing workshops, or fellow students if you don’t know what to do. They will help you to adjust or stick to your plans.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Good self-organization doesn’t materialize from nowhere. During your studies, you will constantly develop the ability to do so.

Ersti Magazine

This text first appeared in the 2022 edition of the Ersti-Magazin. As a first-year student, the magazine can provide you with helpful tips for starting your degree and for the current semester. Find out first-hand from University of Bremen students where they like to study on campus, what their everyday student life is like, and what activities they are involved in. The latest edition of the magazine can be found in print on campus and can be downloaded online as a PDF (available in German only).