Greater academic success through higher-quality support: Professional advisors and a sustainably established network
Student Life Cycle: Starting studies, specialization phase and final exam
Target group: Prospective students, current students, lecturers and staff at universities
University: Fulda University of Applied Sciences
Students, especially during their initial studies and in stressful situations (e.g., exam pressure, orientation, personal or organizational problems), need support, but are not always aware of available resources or access them too late. Clear structures, easy accessibility, and expert guidance aim to lower barriers, identify risks early, and reduce dropout rates. The overarching goal is reliable, coordinated support throughout all phases of study.
Three sub-goals are pursued:
(1) to network existing counselling services university-wide and make responsibilities transparent,
(2) to provide professional and methodological qualifications for counselling staff,
(3) to simplify and make access routes more visible for students.
Regular network meetings are the starting point for further development: They support coordination and ensure a consistent approach. Here, a shared understanding of counseling and guidelines for initial contact, referrals, data protection, and documentation are developed. Parallel training courses are offered, including on communication skills, solution-oriented counseling, crisis management, diversity/sensitivity awareness, and digital tools (appointment management, information provision). These are complemented by information and communication measures (e.g., a central website, clear contact points, information provided in introductory events).
The result is an established advisory network with clear processes and easily accessible contact channels. Advisors share a common understanding of quality and possess enhanced expertise; students receive appropriate support more quickly. Increased use of the advisory services, improved orientation, and more stable academic progress are expected, measurable, for example, through lower dropout rates, reduced delays, and positive feedback. The structures are designed for sustainability and can be adapted to other target groups and needs.
– Susan Gamper, Head of Central Student Advisory Services
studienberatung@hs-fulda.de
Tel.: +49 661 9640-1430
Maxime Musterfrau
