Finding your feet in a new city and swapping academic appointments for everyday life as a student: Medical student Mirjam Philippi explains how this works.
Mirjam Philippi already knew she wanted to be a doctor when she was 15. One school-leaving certificate and five years in the emergency services later, she was finally accepted to study medicine in Oldenburg. "I didn't really have the city on my radar," admits Mirjam, who was born in the southern Harz region. But the focus of the medical degree programme here convinced her. The 24-year-old quickly found a flat through private contacts. "I was really lucky, I know from fellow students that it's not that easy to find a suitable flat share."
Mirjam's start in the new city and to her studies was relatively relaxed. During the orientation week, her student body put together a colourful welcome programme for the new students - including a campus and city rally - as is usual in other disciplines. "That was really nice," recalls Mirjam, who is now in her second semester. "The older students got us involved straight away, offered fellow students who hadn't yet found a flat a place to sleep and gave us tips on what to do at the weekend." As the medical student cohorts are relatively small with around 40 students, the atmosphere quickly became very informal.
Staying on the ball is the be-all and end-all
While other student bodies were still introducing their first-semester students to the art of timetabling, Mirjam and her fellow students were already sitting in their first lectures: "The semester starts at the end of September for the medical students," she says. She was well aware that studying would be no walk in the park. "Nevertheless, I had imagined it would be a little less time-consuming," she admits. Although she is still familiar with long, well-paced days from her day-to-day work, it is still a challenge to stay focussed and follow the lecturers. "After three hours of biochemistry, you can really run out of steam." Mirjam benefits greatly from her training - first as a paramedic, then as a paramedic and finally as an emergency paramedic: The vocabulary is in place and she already has a lot of basic knowledge about the body.
The biggest change for the student is that there is no such thing as a day off during her studies. "There's always work waiting," she says. Whether it's preparing for an internship or following up on a lecture. "It's not as if you always understand everything straight away." Staying on the ball is the be-all and end-all for successfully mastering everyday study life. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution: everyone has to find out for themselves how best to study - whether in the library, at home or in a group. "I set up a study group relatively quickly. Personally, it helps me a lot. You ask each other questions, which gives you momentum. And of course you motivate each other immensely, especially when preparing for exams."
Taking care of yourself
The student also makes time for social engagement. As a member of the Student council, she plays an active role in shaping her degree programme. "There are many opportunities to get involved - in committees or working groups. One great example is the Teddy Bear Hospital, where children can have their 'sick' cuddly toy treated by medical students and learn about hospital procedures in a fun way," she says. "Getting involved is worthwhile, fun and a great opportunity to meet new people."
Despite all the drive, it is still important to take regular breaks. "You have to make sure you don't run out of breath," says Mirjam. Her tip: reserve one evening a week to go to the gym or play music. "In summer, you can also meet up at the Dobbenwiesen or go to one of the surrounding lakes," she enthuses. She is also very enthusiastic about the "green city" of Oldenburg. "The city and university simply have a lot to offer."
