Maybe you know the feeling: You go to a college open house, end up in a huge lecture hall, voices everywhere, people everywhere—it all feels like a system where you’re more of a number than a person. And suddenly you ask yourself: Is college the right choice for me?

This is precisely where an insight lies that many underestimate: Often, it’s not the degree program itself, but the setting. Small groups, short distances, and real people you can turn to can make the difference between constant stress and a college experience that feels manageable and right for you.

If you’re thinking about going to college, one question is crucial: Where can you really get support when you need it? Not just sometime down the road, but exactly when you’re feeling stuck.

Here at HSZG, this topic comes up again and again: studying in smaller groups changes your daily routine. You can connect with instructors more easily, ask questions without feeling “stupid,” and get immediate feedback on whether you’re on the right track.

Why this is especially important for prospective students: The transition from high school to college is a tough adjustment for many. In high school, a lot is laid out for you. In college, you have to organize yourself. Small groups don’t take that burden off your shoulders entirely, but they make it clearer, more accessible, and more human—and thus a whole lot easier.

Here’s the point: You’re seen. And that’s often more important for your motivation and perseverance—even when things aren’t going so smoothly—than the “perfect” degree program on paper.

Many people base their decisions on rankings or on what “everyone else does” because that’s what they’ve heard from friends, acquaintances, and family. In reality, though, the deciding factor is often something else: Can you imagine actually studying and living there?

Theresa candidly shares how she was completely burned out after visiting a university in Dresden.

Here’s what you can take away from this if you’re currently looking for a college spot:

• Don’t just go to “the big names”—go where you feel you’d be comfortable.
• Use open houses to get a feel for the atmosphere, not just the curriculum.
• Listen to your head, but also to your gut. If you’re already stressed just walking in, it won’t get any better once the semester starts.

And yes, it depends on your personality. Some people love anonymity. Others prefer a small, intimate setting. Both are fine. The main thing is that you make a conscious decision.

One of the most common concerns before starting college is about invigilated (written) examinations. Many students wonder just how challenging invigilated (written) examinations actually are in college and what to expect. Theresa addresses these concerns and explains how exam periods are typically structured.

Then comes the phrase you should keep in mind whenever you're feeling doubtful:

Why this is so important: It’s not about everything being handed to you. It’s about being able to learn in a structured way, ask questions, and have an environment where you’re not left on your own.

And here’s another important reality check from Bene:

That's true. College is your own responsibility. But in an environment that doesn't immediately overwhelm you.

Especially if you’re a Gen Z student, you probably want more than just theory—you want relevance, too. You ask yourself questions like: How will this benefit me later on? Where can I apply this? And can I try things out for myself? Why should I study this?

In the Tourism Management program, Theresa describes how heavily practical experience and field trips are integrated into the curriculum.

The culture and management program is also about freedom and personal development. Henning clearly emphasizes the topic of studying abroad.

And he explains in very concrete terms why you're actually in a good position at a smaller college town like Zittau or Görlitz:

Here's what that means for you: You don't have to go to a big university first to gain international experience or get hands-on experience. Sometimes it's even easier when the structure is more manageable and you can get things done faster.

College is more than just lectures. You also need a balance, people, and places where you feel at home. And yes, many people have preconceived notions about smaller towns.

Henning describes Görlitz as a place quite aptly:

Things you can do here in Zittau and Görlitz if you want to not only “study” but also live your life to the fullest:

• Sports and the outdoors: bike paths, lakes, and mountains nearby
• The border is right around the corner: in five minutes you’re in another country
• Subculture and events—if you know where to find them (and yes, sometimes they’re a bit hidden)—but you’ll get the hang of it quickly.

That’s the way smaller towns work. Things don’t come to you as much; you have to go out and find them. If you’re open-minded, you’re sure to make friends.

The next major source of stress: money. Rent. A part-time job. BAföG. And the question of whether you can even afford it.

Theresa compares her situation to that of her friends who are studying in Leipzig and Dresden:

Bene definitely recommends living in a dorm when you first arrive, because it's simple and affordable:

Henning adds that, in addition to BAföG, jobs are also a lucrative option, especially at the university itself:

What You Should Do Right Now (If You're Interested in Studying)

1. Check out the campus environment, not just the degree program. Attend an open house at the university and pay attention to how it makes you feel: Can you imagine studying here?
2. Ask about group and support structures. How big are the seminars really? How quickly can you get help?
3. Take test anxiety seriously, but don’t let it dictate your decision. Plan ahead, ask about exam formats, and talk to current students.
4. Realistically assess your finances. Rent, dorms, BAföG, part-time job, family insurance. Doing the math thoroughly once will save you stress later.
5. If you want to make connections, take the first step toward people. In smaller cities, a lot depends on your own initiative. It feels unfamiliar at first, but it’s worth it. We’re happy to help you find a student contact even before you start your studies!