After 38 years at the Psychological Counselling Service of the Studierendenwerk and the University, Gisela Degener has retired. During this time, she has closely supported and influenced many thousands of students.
In 1987, Degener began her work in a small office with nicotine-coloured walls. Without further ado, she painted the walls herself after work - there were hardly any bureaucratic hurdles back then. In general, the first few years were characterised by great freedom: The young team at a newly founded institution at a young university was able to organise its own work. "I had a great job!" she says looking back. It is always particularly moving when former clients get in touch years later and tell her how much the counselling had an impact on their lives.
To this day, Degener experiences a lot of creative freedom to realise new ideas. "The environment is simply inspiring. The young people with their fresh ideas ensure that you don't get stuck in entrenched thought patterns - provided you allow yourself to get involved," says Degener about her work. Over the decades, she has observed generations of students who, despite their individuality, have experienced similar challenges: fears in the 1980s, triggered by the Cold War, environmental threats and HIV, are surprisingly similar to the concerns of recent years about the war in Ukraine, the climate crisis and coronavirus.
Networking as the key to combating isolation
According to Degener, the isolation of many students is one of the main causes of psychological stress. The isolating pandemic years in particular have exacerbated this. She therefore used her last years at PBS, during which she managed the institution, to create networking opportunities and promote dialogue. "We were able to observe how the students really blossomed in their interactions," she reports.
Community, contact and presence are central principles of the PBS. Degener emphasises that studying is not just about academic education, but also about personal development: reflection, expanding personal skills and learning to deal with failure are important processes during this time. "Approach each other, talk to each other. Don't compare yourselves, don't standardise yourselves, but celebrate your individuality and form communities!" says Degener, summarising her most important advice for students.
Looking back: Origin of the PBS
The PBS was founded at the beginning of the 1980s as a cooperation between the university and the student union. In the early years, the work of the staff was similar to traditional social work, including a popular "tea room" and therapeutic residential groups for mentally ill students. In the late 1980s, the centre also became involved in AIDS prevention work. Gisela Degener joined the organisation in 1987 as part of a project position in this area.
Marlies Hölscher-Dielenschneider, a psychotherapist with many years of experience in the counselling centre for children, young people and parents in the district of Ammerland, succeeds her at the head of the PBS. "I'm looking forward to working with the team to support young adults in their development," she says.
