02.10.2024 Kickstart Your Semester! | FIT: Well Being & Social Integration

We wanted to share some exciting feedback from our recent “Kickstart Your Semester” workshop. After the workshop, we asked participants for their thoughts, and the response was overwhelmingly positive! Here’s what attendees found most valuable:

  • Goal Setting: Participants learned how to set realistic and achievable goals for the semester, making it easier to stay focused and motivated. 🎯
  • Time Management: The workshop provided practical strategies for managing time effectively, helping students balance their studies with personal life. ⏳
  • Building Resilience: Attendees gained tools to build resilience, equipping them to handle stress and overcome challenges that may arise during the semester. 💪

Many students expressed that the workshop made them feel more prepared and confident as they began the semester:

„The Kickstart Your Semester workshop was a powerful reminder of the necessity of acting in the now. It helped me confront procrastination, align my goals with purpose and built the resilience needed to face the semester ahead with clarity and intention. 

Aybaniz Mammadrzayeva, Master Economic Policy

 

„Participating in the ‚Kickstart Your Semester‘ workshop not only helped me become more productive and proficient in my studies, but also increased my self-awareness and provided insight into my strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet new people, some of whom have since become friends.“

Baqir Qanoni – Master Roads to Democracy


We’re thrilled to see such positive feedback and hope to make this workshop a regular event each semester. If you’re looking for support to enhance your academic experience, be sure to join us next time!

In the meantime, check out more events from the FIT project here:
FIT Events

You don’t want to miss out!

23.10.24 Culture Session: Preparing for International Careers | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

On October 23, 2024, a group of international students participated in our interactive session about German business culture called “Preparing for International Careers: Understanding Cultural Differences.” The session aimed to deepen their understanding of German work culture and develop skills to thrive in workplaces around the world.

To start, participants engaged in an exercise that highlighted how everyone sees the world through a “cultural lens.” This lens is shaped by the values, norms, and experiences of one’s own culture. Recognizing this is essential for building an international career, as it allows people to reflect on interactions from a more objective perspective. This skill of self-reflection was then practiced through hands-on exercises, each set in realistic work scenarios.

Another key takeaway from the workshop was to “observe quickly, but avoid judging right away.” Students learned how elements like Germany’s focus on punctuality and direct communication affect professional interactions, gaining insights on how to handle these differences smoothly. The Iceberg Model of Culture added further depth, showing that visible aspects, such as language or dress, are just the surface, while hidden values and norms drive behavior on a deeper level.

With an energetic atmosphere, the session encouraged active participation and practical exercises, helping students adapt their communication styles and avoid cultural missteps. By the end, the group walked away with useful tools to boost their confidence in navigating cultural differences, both in Germany and beyond.

30.10.24 Speed Friending | FIT: Well Being & Social Integration

On October 30th, 2024, our Speed-Friending event took place at the F-S Building, gathering international students from around the world to connect, build friendships, and become part of our community. Through a series of interactive activities and games, participants had the chance to break the ice, share experiences, and make lasting memories.

The event kicked off with the "Find Somebody Who" photo competition, a fun twist on finding commonalities. Students collaborated to capture photos of each other based on similarities, from shared hobbies to favorite foods.

Afterward, everyone joined multiple Speed-Friending rounds, where students rotated through brief, lively chats to get to know as many people as possible. Laughter and smiles filled the room as participants quickly discovered shared interests and stories.

Finally, a Silent Group Quiz challenged participants to communicate solely via social media—a unique and modern approach that encouraged teamwork in a digital format.

The winning teams celebrated their victories with vouchers to Café Flocke, where they can continue to connect and enjoy each other’s company in a cozy setting.

The event was a great reminder that building a supportive social network is possible, even when far from home. We look forward to organizing more events that bring people together, promote well-being, and create opportunities for meaningful connections.