Author: Emma Dietz

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SLR Blog: Exam Anxiety | Student Survival Tips

Exams coming up and your nerves are already on edge? Totally normal. But the good news is: you don’t have to deal with all that stress alone. Uni Siegen offers some really useful ways to help you calm down and focus.

1. Join a ZSB Workshop
The Zentrale Studienberatung (ZSB) runs helpful workshops on stress management, study techniques, and how to deal with pressure. It’s a good chance to learn helpful tools and to realize you’re not the only one feeling stressed.
👉 Check it out here: uni-siegen.de/zsb/veranstaltungen/workshops.html

2. Drop by the Student Living Room
Need someone to talk to? The Hosts in the Student Living Room are there to listen, support you, and answer your questions, whether it’s about daily struggles, uni stress, your studies or just how to survive the exam phase.

3. Take a break
Studying non-stop sounds productive, but it actually hurts your focus in the long run. Short breaks help your brain absorb information, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. The Selfcare Sessions at the Student Living Room are all about taking care of your mental well-being.

4. Prepare with a plan – not just panic
 A solid prep plan helps you stay calm and focused. Break your material into smaller parts, spread it over several days, and set realistic daily goals. You’ll feel way more in control and less overwhelmed.

5. Learn to handle stress (Yes, you can!)
Stress is normal, but you don’t have to let it take over. Simple strategies like breathing exercises, short walks, or even a change of scenery can make a huge difference. And if you want to learn more: Uni Siegen offers workshops on stress management and how to stay mentally balanced during exams. Definitely worth checking out!
👉 uni-siegen.de/zsb/veranstaltungen/workshops.html

6. Reach out for counseling
The uni’s Psychologische Beratung is free and confidential. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, lack of motivation, or just feeling stuck , talking to someone can really help.

7. Don’t study alone all the time
Group study can ease anxiety and keep you from spiraling over that one topic you don’t get. You can quiz each other, share helpful strategies, and keep each other motivated when focus starts to slip.

8. Move. Breathe. Sleep.
Sounds basic, but it works. A short walk, stretching, or some deep breathing can reset your mind. And please, don’t underestimate the power of actual sleep.

You’re not alone in this.
Use what Uni Siegen offers and be kind to yourself. One exam doesn’t define you. You’ve got this. 🍀

You SLR host Emma 😊

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SLR Blog: Waste separation in Germany | Student Survival Tips

Germany takes waste sorting seriously and for good reason! Recycling reduces pollution, saves energy, and protects the environment. Here’s a quick guide to the bin colors and their meaning:

Yellow bin (Gelbe Tonne) – Packaging waste

✅ Plastic wrappers, cans, cartons
❌ Toys, electronics, paper
➡️ Sorted and recycled into new packaging

Blue bin (Blaue Tonne) – Paper & cardboard

✅ Newspapers, boxes, books
❌ Dirty paper (e.g. pizza boxes), tissues
➡️ Saves trees and water

Glass containers – Sorted by color

✅ Bottles and jars (white, green, brown)
❌ Ceramics, mirrors, light bulbs
➡️ Glass is 100% recyclable

Brown bin (Biotonne) – Organic waste

✅ Fruit, veggies, coffee grounds
❌ Plastic, cooked food (check local rules)
➡️ Turned into compost or biogas

Black/Grey bin – Residual waste

✅ Hygiene products, ashes, broken items
❌ Recyclables
➡️ Burned for energy and least eco-friendly

Why It Matters

  • Less landfill waste
  •  Lower CO₂ emissions
  • Saves energy and resources

Tips:

  • Return Pfand bottles to the store

  • Check your local city’s rules because some areas and cities differ slightly

  • Use the “Grüner Punkt” to identify recyclable packaging

Your SLR host Emma 😊

My Source: https://www.nabu.de/umwelt-und-ressourcen/oekologisch-leben/alltagsprodukte/19838.html

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SLR Blog: Budget-friendly tips for international students | Student Survival Tips

Studying abroad is exciting, but managing money can be tough. Here are some real, everyday budget hacks that international students can actually use:

1. Shop Smart: Compare prices & use discounts
Always compare prices before buying anything. Use apps like Idealo and UNiDAYS and take advantage of student discounts wherever possible for example for online shops, stores, computers, even museums!

2. Save on transportation
Use student travel passes, monthly public transport tickets, or bike-sharing programs. For longer trips, try BlaBlaCar or carpooling with friends instead of pricey trains.

3. Use store & cashback apps
Many supermarkets and drugstores (like Lidl, Rewe, or DM in Germany) have their own apps with digital coupons and rewards. Combine them with cashback apps like Payback or extensions like Honey to save even more.

4. Buy second-hand whenever possible
From clothes to furniture, buying used is cheaper. Vinted, Kleinanzeigen or university notice boards before buying new.

5. Split costs with friends
Share Abonnements, shop for groceries together, or take turns cooking. It’s cheaper and more fun!

6. Meal-prep to save time and money
If you cook a few meals at home each week, you’ll spend less on expensive takeout. Make extra portions so you can freeze leftovers.

7. Use free university resources
Don’t pay for stuff your university already offers! Libraries, printers, free software (like Microsoft Office), cheaper fitness classes (Hochschulsport), or cultural events.

8. Track your spendings
Use simple apps like Spendee, Monefy, or Buddy to monitor your daily expenses. You’ll quickly see where your money goes and where you can try to save some more.

9. Earn a bit on the side
If your visa allows it, take on a small job like tutoring, babysitting or other student jobs.

10. Use the library Instead of buying books and textbooks
Textbooks are expensive and often only needed for a few weeks. Borrow them from the library or buy them second-hand.

11. Join student or cultural groups
Many groups organize free events, cooking nights, or trips. It’s a great way to meet people and save money at the same time. You can find many of them here.

Your SLR host Emma 😊

Source: Save the Student – Student Finance Guide 2025 savethestudent.org

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SLR Blog: Adjusting to the New Culture for International Students in Germany | Student Survival Tips

Moving to a new country can be exciting, but also challenging. Here are some simple tips to help you adjust to life in Germany:

  • Be open-minded: Things might be different from your home country, and that’s okay! Try to stay curious and positive.
  • Learn some German: Even a few basic phrases can help a lot and show locals that you are making an effort.
  • Learn the local etiquette: In Germany, people value punctuality, honesty, and personal space. It’s helpful to understand cultural habits and social rules.
  • Join activities: At the University of Siegen, you’ll find a wide range of opportunities to settle in and connect , including orientation programs, the Buddy Program, the Student Living Room, and Forging International Talents. You can also join workshops, improve your German in language courses, or take part in international meet-ups like the International Stammtisch and Stronger Together. More info can be found here.
  • Talk to others: Try not to only stay with people from your home country. Meet other international students and also connect with German students.
  • Ask for help: If you feel lost or homesick, don’t be afraid to ask for support. You are not alone!
  • Be patient: This is a process of change – and all changes are challenging. It takes time to adapt, so give yourself time and space to grow.

💡 Tip: The Student Living Room publishes a monthly overview of its events, from relaxing mindfulness sessions to fun international gatherings. Check it out here.

Take your time to adjust and enjoy the journey. New cultures mean new experiences and many great memories!

 

Your SLR host Emma 😊

 

Source: https://abroad.rice.edu/adjusting-new-cultureadjusting-new-culture

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SLR Blog: Self-care for students | Student Survival Tips

Student life can be exciting, but it often comes with a heavy workload, deadlines, and the pressure to succeed. It’s easy to neglect self-care, but taking time for yourself is essential for your well-being and success.

Self-care helps manage stress, boosts mental health, and improves focus and productivity. It’s not just about spa days or meditation (though those are great!), it can be as simple as going for a walk, chatting with friends, or setting healthy boundaries.

To make self-care easier, the Student Living Room hosts a weekly self-care session! Whether it’s relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, or just unwinding with fellow students, it’s a great way to recharge and connect. You can look forward to fun activities like playing games, going for a walk, creating vision boards, or even a game of chess!

Stop by and see for yourself! 😉
Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/int.students_siegen/ and let’s connect!

Your host Emma ☺️


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SLR Blog: Stay Focused with the Pomodoro Technique | Student Survival Tips

Do you also struggle to stay focused on your studies for long periods of time? Studying for long hours can be exhausting, and distractions often make it hard to stay on track. The Pomodoro Technique, developed by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s, is a simple yet effective way to improve concentration.

How It Works:

Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus on one task.

Take a 5-minute break to recharge.

Repeat the cycle four times, then take a longer break (15–30 minutes).

This method is effective because it breaks study sessions into manageable intervals, helping to maintain focus while preventing mental fatigue. The short breaks provide a chance to reset, making studying more efficient and less overwhelming. It’s a great way to stay productive without feeling drained. Keep in mind that learning is a personal experience, so if this technique doesn’t work for you, don’t worry we’ll be sharing other tips as well. You can try the technique on this website : https://pomofocus.io

My Source: https://www.todoist.com/de/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique

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SLR Blog: How to stop doomscrolling | Student Survival Tips

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to fall into the habit of doomscrolling—spending excessive time reading negative news or distressing social media posts. While staying informed is important, overconsuming alarming content can negatively impact mental health, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and even depression. As students, who often juggle academic pressures, it’s essential to recognize how online habits influence our well-being.

To help manage doomscrolling and protect your mental well-being, here are some effective strategies:

  • Set Time Limits: Implement screen time trackers on your phone or use apps that limit your access to social media and news outlets. This way, you can prevent yourself from endlessly scrolling, especially during study sessions or late at night.
  • Don’t Bring Your Phone Everywhere: Avoid taking your phone to the dinner table, to bed, or placing it on your nightstand while you sleep. Keeping your phone out of reach in these moments can help improve focus, relaxation, and sleep quality.
  • Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that promote positive, educational, or inspiring content. Unfollow or mute sources that tend to share distressing or overwhelming news. This ensures that the content you consume contributes to a healthier mindset.
  • Take Regular Breaks: Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to step away from screens. This could be as simple as taking a 10-minute walk, reading a book, or spending time with friends. Giving yourself space from constant digital exposure can help reduce stress.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. These activities help center your thoughts and reduce anxiety caused by negative news. Practicing mindfulness can enhance emotional resilience in the face of overwhelming information. You can try and practise these exercises, with us or alone in the Student Living Room!

By reflecting on and managing your online habits, you can create a healthier relationship with digital content and protect your mental well-being, even in a fast-paced world that’s often flooded with informations.

Are you ready to try one of these strategies to take control of your screen time? Go ahead, give it a shot!

Your SLR-Host Emma 😊

My Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/doomscrolling-dangers