New Potentials

Studies in educational science show that social background has a significant influence on the course of studies and academic success. Students from non-academic homes often do not arrive at university properly, part-time jobs are usually sought outside the university, the university habitus remains foreign and the important development of networks within academia is often lacking. This has an impact on both academic success and future career orientation.

Our goal: to promote the academic success of first-year students and diversity in the academic environment.

Our building blocks

• Student position: The programme arranges and finances UNIFY Hiwi positions for up to 30 hours per month for a period of two semesters. Bachelor students from the third semester with a non-academic background can apply.
• Mentoring: Participating professors and research assistants become mentors for their student assistants. The structure of the mentoring relationship is decided in an individual agreement between mentor and mentee. UNIFY offers programme participants a short event on successful mentoring before the start of the programme and provides support during the project phase in case of questions.
• Further training: We endeavour to promote diversity in the academic environment and offer our participants the best possible support. 
  • Diversity training: Our interactive workshops and discussions enable participants to develop a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusion. Topics such as cultural diversity, gender equality, etc. are covered in order to promote respectful interaction and sensitise participants to different perspectives.
  • Job application training: Through practical tips, individual feedback and practice opportunities, participants are supported in optimising their application documents, successfully applying for jobs and optimally preparing for job interviews.
  • "Arbeiterkind" event: In cooperation with Arbeiterkind e.V., we offer special events for students from non-academic backgrounds. These provide a platform for exchange, mutual support and networking with like-minded people to encourage and inspire participants.
  • Intercultural Competence Training: The training supports participants in developing their intercultural skills and improving their ability to deal with cultural diversity. Through practical exercises and case studies, we strengthen their intercultural competences to promote an inclusive and diverse community.

• Peer exchange for tandems and students: The peer exchange offers participating mentors and mentees the opportunity to network with others, share experiences, discuss challenges and support each other.

The new round starts in the winter semester 24/25. 

Contact: If you have any questions, please contact Annika Werner or Marie-Claire Kabengele.

Contact details 

Annika Werner: annika.werner@uni-heidelberg.de 
Marie-Claire Kabengele: marie-claire.kabengele@uni-heidelberg.de  

Join the New Potentials Programme and shape your future at Heidelberg University!