In addition tothe possibilities of consultation and offers of the local women’s representative and gender equality officer of this department, you have different options of support and consultation at the Free University of Berlin and other institutions.

During studies

Crisis or stress situations

The Center for Academic Advising and Psychological Counseling offers psychological advises concerning topics like: problems with orientation or motivation, fear of examinations, learning problems, stress, excessive demands and much more in individual counselling. They also offer interesting and helpfull workshops with topics like stress management. It is possible to get advice via mail. You will be accompanied by professional psychotherapist through this time and your personal development.
A similar offer has the “Studierendenwerk Berlin”. The Studierendenwerk Berlin is competent for all students of all universities in Berlin. They even offer a special counselling for becoming mothers.

Organization of studies and your future

If you are interested in studying at the Free University of Berlin (questions about application and admission) or have questions about contents and demands, you can turn to the Center for Acedemic Advising and Psychological Counseling. In case of questions concerning the organization of your studies (at the department of biology, chemistry, pharmacy) you can get advice at the respective Office of Academic Affairs and the respective Examination Office. Further you have the possibility to get academic advice by lecturers and students. Especially for first semesters and exchange students the department of biology, chemistry, pharmacy offers the mentoring programme. It will help you to have an easier start in your studies by getting help and advice from experienced mentors.
Further, in Berlin exists a group of the job centre which develops counselling programmes for students and offers different workshops, events and fairs (current programme – german version).

Financing

Counselling concerning the financing of your studies, e. g. with BAföG, render the Studierendenwerk Berlin during the social counselling. Apart of the regular financing possibilities there are funds for emergency cases, bridging loans and study starter grants or rather for finishing.
Another counselling concerning BAföG and other social issues offers the ASTA (Students representative Council) of the Free university of Berlin.

During promotion

The Dahlem Research School offers counselling several possibilities:

• concerning structured and individual doctorates
• other professional conflicts

Further you can get the following advices:

• statistical consulting
• DREAM Mentoring for female doctoral candidates