7 Mistakes I Made as an International Student in Germany (Don’t Be Like Me!)

In my opinion as a part time recluse, I enjoyed my time as a student here in Germany.

But, looking back, there are a few things I definitely could have done better to really position myself as an international student. And that’s exactly what we’re talking about today!

It’s my first time navigating the German train system alone. I’m standing on the platform with my freshly printed ticket, feeling like a seasoned traveler, until the train arrives and reality hits.

The doors don’t open automatically.

I stand there completely lost, waiting for magic to happen, while Germans around me casually press the tiny, unmarked button I didn’t notice.

When I finally figure it out, I practically throw myself inside 😂

A few minutes later, I missed my stop because I was too nervous to ask if it was the right one and just like you have guessed, I ended up in a small town where the only open business was a kebab shop.

Funny right!

Well, Three years later, I look back and cringe at all the mistakes I made.

Mistakes that cost me opportunities, friendships, and even a few euros 😢 But here’s the good news: you don’t have to repeat them.

So grab a snack (preferably something that reminds you of home), and let’s dive into the 7 biggest mistakes I made as an international student in Germany and how you can avoid them.

MISTAKE #1: CHOOSING MY SCHOOL LIKE I WAS PICKING A NETFLIX SHOW

Hmm, this university is cheap. This city is affordable. Sold!”

That was literally my entire selection process. I treated picking a university like scrolling through Netflix. “This one looks fine, let’s go with it.”

Lets just say I was considering the wrong things and didn’t do enough research.

I should have considered things like job connections, networking opportunities, or connections to the local job market.

This greatly impacted a lot of things which could have been avoided.

So, pro tip: make sure you pick a school that not only fits your immediate situation but also your future goals.

Because your uni isn’t just a school, it’s your launchpad. Pick wisely.

MISTAKE #2: TREATING GERMAN LIKE A “MAYBE LATER” PROBLEM

“Everyone speaks English anyway, right?”

Famous. Last. Words.

Here’s what happens when your German is limited to “Danke” and “Entschuldigung”:

• You accidentally agree to a “WG-Putzplan” (cleaning schedule) thinking it’s a party invite.
• You nod along in class, only to realize later the professor just gave a major assignment.
• You get stuck in a “Kein Englisch” situation at the Bürgeramt (and suddenly, mime skills become crucial).

If you are not taking learning German seriously, well, I also didn’t it seriously at first, and I regret it.

While English is widely spoken, learning German gives you a huge advantage in everything from job opportunities to making local friends.

So, if you’re just starting out, make learning German a priority from day one. Your future self will thank you!

Pro tip: Start learning German yesterday. Even “broken German” is better than “no German.”

MISTAKE #3: AVOIDING STUDENT POLITICS LIKE IT WAS A NOLLYWOOD DRAMA

“Student government? Sounds like extra stress.”

Biggest. Regret.

Student bodies aren’t just for overachievers, they’re goldmines for:

• Networking (future CEOs, politicians, and influencers start here).
• Free food (seriously, the AStA budget includes Kaffee und Kuchen).
• Actual power (ever wanted to protest tuition hikes? Here’s your chance).

I missed out on a lot by not joining student bodies and getting involved in school politics.

Trust me, It’s a great way to meet people, build leadership skills, and just be in the know about what’s happening on campus. Plus, it looks great on your CV!

Get involved, it’ll pay off.

Pro Tip: Join something. Even if it’s just the “International Students’ Movie Night” committee. 😉

MISTAKE #4: GHOSTING NETWORKING EVENTS LIKE AN EX

“Networking events? Sounds like forced small talk.”

Me, two years later: “Wait, how did he get that BMW internship?!”

Here’s the truth: Networking isn’t just for extroverts.

• Career fairs = Free job leads
• Meetups = Friends who actually get your visa struggles
• Alumni hangouts = People who’ve been where you are

I know that networking events can feel awkward for a lot of people, but they are such a goldmine for making connections and I regret not attending more.

Whether you’re looking for internships, jobs, or just to expand your social circle, these events are essential.

So get out of your comfort zone, go to those career fairs, meet-ups, and industry events.

Who knows… it just might lead to your next job or even lifelong friendships.

Pro Tip: Go for the free food, stay for the connections. win-win.

MISTAKE #5: TREATING INTERNSHIPS LIKE A “FINAL YEAR” PROBLEM

“I’ll worry about internships later.”

Later comes.
“Why do all the jobs require ‘German work experience’?!”

Internships are key to landing a job after graduation, especially here in Germany.

German employers love local experience. The sooner you start, the better.

How to fix this:

• 1st semester: Apply for mini internships (Praktikum).
• 2nd semester: Werkstudent jobs (part-time work in your field).
• 3rd semester: Cry less during job hunts.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait till your 3rd semester, get involved as soon as you can!

MISTAKE #6: NOT FULLY EXPLORING GERMAN & INTERNATIONAL CULTURES

“Why hang out with Germans when I have my Nigerian squad?”

I was living in what I call the “International Student Bubble”.

Don’t get me wrong, my Naija crew kept me sane. But I missed out on a lot of adventures.

Germany is such a rich cultural hub! And what’s more, you’ll meet people from all around the world during your studies.

I wish I had taken more time to truly immerse myself in German culture, as well as learn about the cultures of my fellow international students.

Exploring these different perspectives by connecting with other international students can broaden your worldview, and honestly, it makes life here much more interesting!

If not for anything, at least you make friends who invite you to real German Christmas markets (not the tourist traps). 🎄

Pro tip: Balance is key. Keep your tribe, but branch out.

MISTAKE #7: NOT TRAVELING BECAUSE “I’ll DO IT LATER”

“Europe isn’t going anywhere.”

Then pandemic hits. Then inflation. Then “Wait, how much is a train ticket now?!”

Travel isn’t just fun, it’s an education. It teaches you so much about geography, cultures, even about yourself. Plus, your travel experiences make great conversation starters in both professional and social settings.

Haven’t you heard that:

• Weekend trips = Stories for job interviews.
• Border hops = Cheaper than therapy.
• Erasmus parties = Legends you’ll tell your grandkids.

So don’t wait, grab your backpack and explore Europe! you can travel to up to 26 countries anyway.

Don’t wait. That €19 Flixbus to Amsterdam? Take it.

If I could go back, I’d tell my past self: “Relax. You’ll figure it out. But also, DO THESE THINGS.”

I’m passing the baton to you.

Want More Real Talk About Life in Germany?

👉 Follow my unfiltered adventures on Instagram @naijagirlingermany
👉 Subscribe for weekly student survival guides on YouTube
👉 Watch the video version of this post here

Now go forth, make mistakes (just not these ones 😉), and conquer Germany like the superstar you are.