Student support at Hertie

Hertie has a dedicated academic counsellor, who offers individual counselling sessions to all students. In academic counselling, we can discuss any challenges related to your academic journey. Studying at master’s level is demanding, and the academic counsellor is here to help you navigate it. The meetings could e.g. center around developing strong study skills, managing the workload, and creating good habits for time management. Different learning strategies work for different students, and the academic counsellor is committed to helping you find the strategy that works for you. The academic counsellor also runs a monthly peer support group for neurodivergent students. 

The academic counsellor is further happy to discuss any doubts about the different choices you will make during your master’s degree. Choices about e.g. which elective courses to take, whether or not to spend a semester abroad, or whether to embark on a professional year in the middle of your studies. 

Finally, once you start working on your master’s thesis in the final year of your degree, the academic counsellor offers support for all parts of the research process, including research and methods skills. The thesis support runs in parallel with workshops on research design and analysis. In the individual sessions, we might discuss different topics and research questions, how to choose the right methodology, data collection strategies, and how to develop good writing habits.  

Hertie School offers several mentoring programmes, supporting students in achieving their educational and professional goals through guidance and advice. The programmes provide students with the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors who have navigated similar paths, ultimately promoting their growth and success. We offer mentorship programmes targeted at different groups, including one for students who are the first in their family to pursue higher education. For more information check out: Mentoring Programmes. 

Hertie School is committed to providing equal opportunity for every member of our community to foster academic success. We offer different kinds of support for disadvantaged students, including students with disabilities, chronic conditions, and neurodivergence.  

Formally, it is possible to apply for learning accommodations, including (but not limited to) adapted study plans, additional time for exams and assignments, and separate rooms for exams. Each application for learning accommodations is assessed on an individual basis and we encourage affected students to apply early. The process is handled by the Examination Office who also offer individual advice on the topic. More informally, we offer targeted academic counselling, focusing specifically on the learning challenges of all disadvantaged students, including those from different social and cultural backgrounds. Every month, we further run a peer support group targeted at students with neurodivergent conditions, where we aim to build a stronger sense of community and awareness around this topic, and where affected students help each other navigate academic life. 

If you are studying with a physical disability, the DEI officer further offers general advice and support and will help you navigate any questions about campus accessibility. 

The Hertie School offers counselling services to support students' mental health and wellbeing. Our team includes two psychologists/therapists and one coach, providing short-term, solution-oriented counselling. Counselling sessions are free of charge and available by appointment, either in person or online. Common counselling topics include: 

• Stress and feeling overwhelmed 
• Exam nerves 
• Learning difficulties and procrastination 
• Challenges in building relationships 
• Low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression 
• Psychosomatic symptoms 
• Culture shock, adaptation struggles, homesickness 
• Group work conflicts 
• Pandemic-related stress 
• Guidance on whether psychotherapy is needed 

While these sessions are not a replacement for long-term therapy, the Student Life team is also available to help connect you with additional resources and navigate therapy options in Berlin. 

In addition, all members of the Student Life team have basic mental health training and are always happy to listen and offer support if you need someone to talk to. 

At Hertie, we know that a strong sense of community is key to student wellbeing and experience. That’s why throughout the academic year, we offer a wide range of events and initiatives to help you recharge, connect with your fellow peers and feel supported throughout your studies. Events such as Global Village and the Club Fair provide opportunities to connect with new friends and explore shared interests. Likewise, we offer fun and inclusive community-building events, such as the welcome week scavenger hunt or Spring egg hunt. We’re always open to fresh ideas and new ways to build community. If you have a vision for an event or activity, you’d love to see at Hertie, don’t hesitate to reach out. 

Wellbeing Events 

During the busy mid-term and exam periods, our Exam Care events offer students a moment of calm. Free tea, coffee and study snacks are provided on exam days to help you fuel up and recharge. Past activities have also included aromatherapy oil making, tea making, yoga classes and even a massage chair. After exams are complete, our de-stress activities include silent discos, arts and crafts sessions, open mic nights and community breakfasts. We also collaborate with existing Hertie clubs to run events—such as mindfulness walks and movie nights. 

Peer advisors 

Our Peer Advisors are knowledgeable, friendly students who are here to help you navigate life on campus. Whether you have questions about course planning, getting involved, or just need someone to talk to who’s been in your shoes, they’re a great resource. While they’re not a replacement for professional counseling or conversations with the Student Life team, Peer Advisors are here to offer guidance, share experiences, and point you in the right direction when you need support. 

The Hertie School aims to provide a discrimination-free and safe study environment in which everyone is protected, respected, valued and treated equally. We strongly condemn all forms of discrimination, harassment, bullying and violence, provide support to victims of misconduct and apply a zero-tolerance approach in cases of violation.  

Complaints shall be reported to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. The DEI Officer: 

1. provides confidential counselling, advice  
2. facilitates mediated conflict resolution 
3. takes complaints and investigates the matter.  

All complaints will be handled with utmost confidentiality. If you have any questions, request advice or support or wish to file a complaint, you can always contact di-officer[at]hertie-school[dot]org. 

At the Hertie School, the Career Development Office plays an essential role in helping students navigate their professional journey from the very beginning. Through 1:1 coaching, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, as well as our career platform students receive guidance on everything from tailoring application materials to understanding the German and international job markets. The office also organizes career fairs, mentoring programmes, and alumni-led events, creating valuable opportunities to build connections and gain industry insights. With a strong focus on early planning and personalized support, the team empowers students to explore career paths with clarity and confidence.