Help for self-help. Do you still want to successfully complete your studies but are dissatisfied? We have listed some approaches (based on the BMBF) that can help you overcome this dissatisfaction.

Performance problems or exam nerves: observe exactly how you learn best and absorb new knowledge. The BTU College offers regular learning and exam coaching sessions . Here you can find out more about different learning types, among other things. However, when it comes to coping with stress before exams, optimal preparation is sometimes not enough. The central student guidance and counselling service can help you with such problems. Alternatively, the Studentenwerk also offers counselling services.

High study workload: Try to organise your everyday life better. Diaries, to-do lists and other tools are just a few examples that can help you organise your studies better. In the university library you will find guides on the subject of "self- and time management".

Motivation problems: Rethink your expectations and remain realistic. It is important that you set yourself achievable goals and reward yourself afterwards. If you have long-term motivation problems, we recommend a consultation with the central student guidance and counselling service

Financial difficulties: In addition to BAFÖG, there are other options for financing your studies. Perhaps a student loan is an option for you or you could apply for a scholarship? You can find numerous other options on the BMBF information page.

Family problems/illness: Do other things simply require your full attention at the moment? Do you need a break to think things over? Then take a semester off! You can also get help with problem situations from the central student guidance and counselling service.

Lack of prospects: You don't really know what to do with your studies in your professional life? Alumni networks or conversations with students in higher semesters can often help here. Seek communication and enquire about career opportunities in good time. A look at practical experience can also create a new perspective and restore your motivation and enjoyment of your studies.

Sometimes small changes are not enough to resolve doubts about your studies. In this case, a complete change of scenery may be an option for you. There are various ways in which such a change can take place:

Choice of subject: Do you feel comfortable in the city and at the university, but have you somehow imagined the content of your degree programme to be different? Perhaps a different degree programme would suit you better.

Choice of degree programme: Is your degree programme too theoretical for you? Then perhaps a study programme at a university of applied sciences is more suitable for you. BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg offers both university of applied sciences and university study programmes.

Choice of university location: In addition to the subject and type of university, the surroundings also play a decisive role. If the city is too boring or perhaps too big for you, you can think about changing location. Many study programmes are also offered in other locations.

Choice of study programme: Many students often don't know that there are other forms of study besides the classic full-time study programme. Part-time studies may be the best way to combine studying and raising children. If you have to work alongside your studies, part-time studies would also be a sensible option for you. BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg also offers the option of a co-op programme in some study programmes. If you have more specific questions, you are welcome to contact our student counselling service.

If you have any further questions, pleasecontact the central student guidance and counselling service at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg.

If, after thorough self-reflection and analysis of your current situation, you are convinced that dropping out of university is the best option for you, then there are many possibilities. You should not see the decision to leave university without a degree as a failure. Vocational training also offers attractive career opportunities. In the context of structural change, Lusatia offers numerous interesting new career prospects, so you don't have to leave the region you chose for your studies. See it as an opportunity to embark on a career that really suits you and your individual situation.

The careers advice service at Cottbus Employment Agency is generally your first port of call: once a month, the Employment Agency offers the following via the Career Centre at the main campus and at BTU's Campus Senftenberg personal counselling sessions to discuss your individual prospects and opportunities.

Possible prospects and contacts

• Counselling Agency for Employment
• Dual training
• School-based training
• Training in the public sector