Here’s what participants in the writing marathon are saying:

• “At the writing marathon I’ve learned that taking breaks and getting some movement in between is really important for being productive. All in all, I’ve learned to manage my time and to assess myself more realistically.” (Edith H., diploma thesis in German Studies)
• “I’m very happy that there are writing marathons. Previously, I used to lack orientation as far as my master’s thesis was concerned. All I had was a rough definition of my topic, and no actual structure. After an individual advisory session, this changed very rapidly, and the positive atmosphere among my co-writers has helped me to eventually start writing myself. Finally, after two years, I’m again aware how much I like academic research and writing, and how much fun it can be. I’m very grateful for that!” (Julia, Comparative Literature, master’s programme).
• “I probably wouldn’t have read as much during an entire month as I did during that week! And I received a few suggestions concerning my own working process. I’ve realised how much sense it makes to take breaks and get some movement in between! It really has been a fine, productive week!”
• “I’m really happy to have participated in the writing marathon. Spending one week fully focused on a goal, that has given me a very positive feeling. Thank you!”
• “A constructive, quiet place where I’ve finally managed to sufficiently concentrate on my master’s thesis.” (master’s programme, Translation Studies).
• „I loved it! A lot of energy is set free when I’m not the one responsible for my own time management and self-discipline (I would NEVER have achieved as much within such a short time in such a relaxed way, and with so much fun.) We had a smooth and easy start to each day, and the opportunity to tackle major and minor problems in individual advisory sessions has been a great! Our coaches have been competent and motivating – it’s been really great! THANK YOU!” (Bernadette H., master’s thesis, German as a Foreign/Second Language)
• “Thank you for the fantastic, respectful atmosphere! The chance to have exchange on problems with writing has been very positive for me. I’ve also realised that you sometimes have to force yourself to take a break in order to be able to continue working to a high qualitative standard afterwards. Thank you for this new experience! It’s a pity that I won’t be able to go on working with you next week – the atmosphere among all the participants has been really friendly.” (Sandra, German Studies)
• “The writing marathon has provided me with a structure and safe environment, and has thus enabled me to have great freedom and confidence in my writing process. I don’t want to leave this place. I thought I’d hate it, but I love it.”
• “This week has been very productive for me. I’d recommend it to all students who need a little bit of motivation.”
• “The writing marathon has been great. It has helped me in terms of time management and structuring my work. I would like to have already participated at an earlier stage – but better late than never. The consulting has been fantastic, and has been a great help!” (master’s programme, Comparative Literature)
• “I came here to read up on my topic without being distracted, and I’m leaving with a lot more than that: a clearly structured working process, opportunities for self-reflection, so many lovely colleagues who are all working towards the same goal, motivation and perfect organisation, and so many people to lend an ear and provide help at all phases of academic writing.” (Miriam R., Journalism and Communication Studies)
• “After one week of writing marathon, graduation suddenly seems to be within reach again! THANK YOU!”