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Next Step – Mid-Degree Guidance and Support through Community and Connection

Source: ZIM

Feeling lost halfway through your degree? We’re here to help you move forward! Whether you want to reconnect with your motivation, explore new directions, or feel more connected to others: the project “Next Step – Mid-Degree Guidance and Support through Community and Connection” offers concrete one-on-one and group-based support for bachelor’s and master’s students at the University of Potsdam.

Mid-degree challenges — and you’re right in the middle of it

Project goals

Key facts

What we offer — an overview

https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/studium/advising-and-services/zsb/next-step#c994571
Source: ZIM

Group: Staying on track together — guidance, connection, and motivation in the mid-degree phase

https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/studium/advising-and-services/zsb/next-step#c994583
Source: ZIM

Academic advising events in the 2026 summer semester

Group program: Staying on track together — guidance, connection, and motivation in the mid-degree phase

Do you find it hard to stay motivated on your own? Would you like to work alongside other students and be part of a community that helps you stay engaged and keep moving forward?

In a group of up to 12 University of Potsdam students facilitated by student advisors, we will meet every two weeks throughout the summer semester 2026 to work together in-depth on the topics that matter most to you. The group combines guided input and practical exercises with space for peer exchanges and mutual support. An optional online community will help you stay connected between sessions.

The group sessions are scheduled as follows (subject to change):

May 6, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Welcome, introductions, and housekeeping
May 20, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Finding your thread
June 3, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Motivation
June 17, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Strengths, resources, and self-confidence
July 1, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Managing stress and pressures
July 15, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Self-organization, study and work strategies
July 22, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.Wrap-up and evaluation

Language: German

The meeting location will be shared with you in advance.

Midway through the program, we’re planning a casual evening get-together, possibly a small picnic at Neues Palais campus.

After the group phase ends, interested participants can continue to work in small groups.

For registrations and questions about the group, please contact magdalena.vockuni-potsdamde.


One-on-one academic advising and support

If you would like to talk about your personal situation in the middle of your degree, you’re welcome to use our academic advising and support. These one-on-one sessions give you space to reflect on where you are, begin to make changes, and develop practical solutions — especially during periods of uncertainty or lack of direction.

You may want to schedule an advising session if you:

  • feel lost or unsure about your direction
  • are struggling with motivation
  • have doubts about your academic program
  • feel uncertain about your own abilities
  • find it hard to “stay on track”
  • are looking for more connection and community

… and many other reasons.

Languages: German and English

We are happy to support you through regular meetings and/or over a longer period. To schedule an appointment, email magdalena.vockuni-potsdamde or use the Central Student Advisory Service online booking form.


Academic advising events in the 2026 summer semester

In the 2026 summer semester, we will run a series of events featuring core topics from the offerings of the Central Student Advisory Service. Choose from a range of information sessions and workshops that help you explore relevant topics, gain new insights, and connect with other students and advisors.

Summer semester 2026
April 8, 2026 | 11:00 a.m.

Studying with a positive mindset: Tips and strategies for getting started
Online via Zoom

Speaker: Students
Language: German

Registration: studienstartuni-potsdamde (Login details will be sent after registration.)

April 9, 2026 | 2:00 p.m.

Get-together: A motivated start to the summer semester. Bring your individual questions and topics.
Location: Am Neuen Palais

Speaker: Students
Language: German

Registration: studienstartuni-potsdamde (Room details will be sent after registration.)

April 9, 2026 | 4:00 p.m.

Casual group run through Sanssouci Park (5 km)
Speaker: Students
Language: German

In case of bad weather, an alternative option will take place at the same time. Details will be sent after registration

Registration: studienstartuni-potsdamde (Meeting place will be shared after registration.)

Details about additional events will be posted here soon.


Contacts

Project Head

Christoph Beier

Project Officer

Magdalena Vock

Project Officer

Bettina Hertrich

Logos der EU und Land Brandenburg
Photo: EU/Land Brandenburg

The project “Next Step – Mid-Degree Guidance and Support through Community and Connection” is funded by the European Union (ESF) and the State of Brandenburg.