Student Services

Student Services is a 2016 German drama film directed by Lars Kraume, based on the 2010 novel of the same name by Maja Dusikov. The movie revolves around Laura, a 19-year-old university student struggling to come to terms with the financial implications of her academic pursuits at the beginning of her first year. Laura's parents, while well-intentioned, have instilled in her the importance of independence and self-reliance. However, as she navigates her studies, she comes to realize that juggling academics, social life, and personal expenses proves to be an insurmountable task, at least without some external financial assistance. Desperate and feeling overwhelmed by her newfound responsibilities, Laura turns to an online platform where she discovers an advertisement calling for individuals willing to engage in intimate companionship. Despite some initial reservations about the potential risks associated with this line of work, Laura's need for financial security becomes her driving force. Her decision marks the beginning of a downward spiral, as she becomes increasingly consumed by the expectations and pressures placed upon her. This choice leads her to compromise her values and morals, ultimately setting her on a perilous path. Laura begins working as an escort for a company specializing in high-end companionship services. The film masterfully conveys the sense of detachment and isolation that defines her new profession. Laura navigates her interactions with clients while maintaining a strict façade, suppressing any genuine emotions or attachment to avoid getting emotionally entangled. The role she is expected to play, however, raises profound questions about her agency, autonomy, and the commodification of her own body. Through Laura's character, the film raises essential questions about the social and economic realities that drive individuals into situations they may not have otherwise chosen. This includes the rising cost of education, the scarcity of low-paying entry-level jobs, and the growing economic disparities that create a sense of desperation among young people. One of the most striking aspects of Student Services is its critique of a society that increasingly values material wealth and appearance over emotional fulfillment and mental well-being. In the movie, Laura and her colleagues are subject to rigorous grooming and beauty standards, illustrating the ways in which societal expectations can reduce women to mere commodities. This theme is further reinforced by the fact that Laura is judged solely on her physical appearance and sexual availability. The film also sheds light on the emotional labor involved in such a profession, highlighting the ways in which Laura is forced to perform a scripted version of herself for the benefit of her clients. Her struggle to reconcile her authentic self with the persona expected of her serves as a poignant reminder of the societal pressures that encourage women to conform to narrow definitions of femininity. Furthermore, the film subtly suggests that the consequences of Laura's decision extend far beyond the realm of her profession. Her relationships with her family and friends begin to deteriorate as a result of her newfound secrecy, and the stress of navigating this double life threatens to erode her mental health. While Student Services presents a compelling and unflinching portrayal of a young woman's struggle to survive in a precarious social and economic landscape, it also offers a glimmer of hope. Laura's experiences ultimately prompt her to reevaluate her priorities, and she begins to see the importance of seeking genuine connections and meaningful support in her relationships. In conclusion, Student Services offers a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by young adults navigating the complexities of higher education, income inequality, and the expectations surrounding femininity. Through its compelling narrative, the film raises essential questions about the commodification of women's bodies, the costs of materialism, and the need for authentic connections in the midst of adversity.