Facing challenges together during your studies



At a glance


For: Students, prospective students, teachers, university administration


Topics: reality of life; Hurdles (illness, financing, part-time, design); Survey (evaluation, dialogue, solutions, barriers)


Location: University of Music and Performing Arts Frankfurt am Main (HfMDK)


Everyday study life, international mobility and degree completion

Studying, especially at an art college, presents young people with challenges.

We observe in nationwide studies and on site:

  • a variety of situations in which the reality of students
    must be reconciled with study and examination regulations and concrete solutions must be found.
  • Reluctance and uncertainty regarding your own
    impairments that make your studies more difficult.
  • an increase in the vulnerability of young people, multiple crises and existential stress.
  • Lack of information or deliberate non-use of existing
    advisory services.
  • a need for information, support and coping strategies on the part of students and teachers.

On the other hand, due to the numerous stresses of everyday life, people often lose sight of the great development potential that the study period offers, including the possibility of, among other things, stays abroad.


Flexible, individual and reliable?

In the years 2023 to 2025, we would like to use course evaluations and a student survey to address the diverse challenges and initiate a university-wide dialogue.
As early as 2023, course evaluations (16 courses, 2021-2023) will show
interesting results that will be discussed across departments and statuses.

In 2024, as part of a university-wide student survey, the focus on stress factors and needs for relief at an art college will be sharpened.
The results are transferred into everyday university processes. In 2025, we will address relevant questions again in re-evaluations of the degree programs if necessary.

In addition, we particularly want to further promote international mobility and
reduce barriers that prevent students from going abroad: a
permanent survey on Erasmus allows us to constantly
develop our offering - both in terms of advice and information as well as a flexible short-term mobility program , semester stays or
course-related projects.


Contact persons

Silke Hennen , Friederike Kreft , University of Music and Performing Arts Frankfurt am Main (HfMDK)


See also