ALMANYA'DA ÖĞRENCİLER NEDEN ÜNİVERSİTEYİ BIRAKIYOR? Almanya'da Üniversite, Hochschule, Ausbildung

Summary

This video discusses the high dropout rates at universities in Germany, especially among international students. Key factors include intense academic pressure, financial struggles, poor program choices, psychological challenges, and the availability of alternative educational paths. Many students, especially from countries like Turkey, face difficulties balancing work and study. Despite these obstacles, the speaker encourages perseverance and adaptation, highlighting that success is possible with the right adjustments and support. Germany's flexible education system also offers diverse pathways for students seeking alternatives to traditional university education.

Takeaways

• 😀 High university dropout rates in Germany, especially in technical fields like engineering, where dropout rates reach up to 40%.
• 😀 Academic challenges are a major factor, with rigorous weekly assignments and exams that contribute significantly to student stress and failure rates.
• 😀 International students often face financial struggles, with many needing to work part-time, which reduces their time for studying and increases the likelihood of dropping out.
• 😀 Incorrect major choices also contribute to dropout rates, as students often switch fields when they realize their initial choice does not align with their interests or strengths.
• 😀 Psychological pressure is another key factor, with students facing loneliness, fear of failure, and the weight of family expectations, which can negatively affect their mental health.
• 😀 Many students in Germany opt for alternative career paths, such as vocational programs, apprenticeships, or other educational opportunities, leading to higher dropout rates in traditional university settings.
• 😀 The intense academic workload, including 3-4 assignments per week and exams, can overwhelm students, especially those who struggle with time management or understanding complex subjects.
• 😀 The grading system, with assignments counting for 60% and exams for 40%, contributes to stress, as students feel the pressure of performing well in both areas.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that extending the university timeline (e.g., completing a degree in 4 years instead of 3) could help reduce stress and allow for a more balanced academic life.
• 😀 Despite the challenges, the speaker believes success is achievable in the German university system if students put in enough effort, with proper orientation and support.

Q & A

What is the main reason behind the high dropout rate of university students in Germany?

The high dropout rate in Germany is primarily due to academic challenges, financial difficulties, incorrect program choices, psychological pressure, and the availability of alternative educational options.

What is the dropout rate for students in German bachelor's programs?

The dropout rate for students in bachelor's programs in Germany is around 28%, but in technical and engineering fields, it can rise up to 40%.

How do weekly assignments contribute to student dropouts in Germany?

Weekly assignments are demanding, with some programs requiring up to 34 assignments per week. Failure to complete these assignments can result in failing the course, which is a significant cause of students dropping out.

What role do financial difficulties play in university dropouts?

Many students, especially international ones, face financial constraints. They are often forced to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week), which leaves them with insufficient time for their studies, leading to academic struggles and, ultimately, dropping out.

How does choosing the wrong academic program impact students in Germany?

Students who choose a program that doesn't align with their interests or skills may struggle academically. Many students change their program after realizing it's not suitable for them, but this can still lead to dropping out or delaying graduation.

What is the psychological burden that contributes to university dropouts in Germany?

The psychological challenges include feelings of isolation, fear of failure, and the stress of meeting familial expectations. Many students struggle with balancing their academic responsibilities and personal well-being, which can negatively affect their performance.

How does the structure of university education in Germany contribute to student dropout rates?

German university education can be intense and demanding, with a tightly packed curriculum. Some students find the three-year program to be overwhelming and prefer extending their studies to four years to manage the workload more effectively.

Are there alternative educational programs that students in Germany can switch to if they find university too difficult?

Yes, there are various alternative educational paths, such as vocational training (Ausbildung), specialized vocational schools (Hochschule), and international universities, which provide students with different options and can lead to higher dropout rates as some students opt for these alternatives.

How do personal and family expectations impact students’ mental health in Germany?

The pressure to succeed, especially for international students, is high. Students often feel that they must succeed not just for themselves but to meet the expectations of their families, which can cause additional stress and contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

What strategies does the speaker suggest for overcoming academic and psychological challenges?

The speaker recommends taking a more flexible approach to university, potentially extending the study period to reduce stress. They also suggest putting in consistent effort and being well-prepared for courses, as they believe that with dedication, students can succeed despite the challenges.