Non-EU student studying Kommunikationsdesign in Germany — how can I improve my chances of finding a job after graduation?

I’m a 19 year old Non-EU citizen moving to North-Rhine Westphalia, to study a B.A. Kommunikationsdesign in a Fachhochschule this winter semester.

I’m currently around B1 in German and I’ll be C1 by the time I graduate. Ideally, I’d like to stay in Germany and build my career here after finishing my degree, and eventually naturalize.

I know the creative industry is dead, especially in Germany, but I’m really passionate about design and I’d rather put in the work to make myself as employable as possible than cop out and choose a “safer” field. I am aware of the possibility of ending up having to return home, but I want to try my best to stay and become a part of German society.

For people working in the German design/creative industry, what would you recommend I do during my Bachelor’s to give myself the best possible chances of finding a job after graduation?

Particularly,

• Are there any specific areas of design that have relatively better job prospects in Germany that I could focus more on during my degree?

• Are there any specific skills I could learn to make myself stand out in the sea of applicants?

• What is the best way to network with other creatives in Germany? Not just designers, but also musicians, photographers, artists etc. Any specific platforms or any notable irl events to look out for?

And finally, if I’m unable to find a full-time job during my 18 month job seeking permit, would it be possible to get a Freelance permit to stay and work in Germany, granted that I have German clients?

I’d really appreciate advice from people actually working in the German design industry, especially international graduates who have gone through something similar. Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to share their experience or advice. I really appreciate it.