Origin always matters! - Understanding and utilising social origin in the context of higher education

Social background has a significant influence on educational pathways – especially at universities. It not only shapes our decision to study or pursue a doctorate, but also influences our self-image, our behaviour and our prospects in the academic world.

For so-called first-generation academics – i.e. people who are the first in their family to study – the path to university is often fraught with particular hurdles, uncertainties and unanswered questions. Support from parents is limited, as the academic world is mostly unknown to them. Family expectations, a lack of role models or a lack of ‘insider knowledge’ about university make access even more difficult.

👉 What exactly does social background mean?

This short video provides a good introduction: The hard road to becoming an academic

This workshop addresses precisely this issue:

• What strengths do I bring with me – precisely because of my background?
• What habits are required at university – and which ones do I have?
• What invisible rules do I encounter time and again?

The workshop is aimed at all students, employees, teachers and interested parties who want to explore their social background and draw strength from it for their studies or academic career.

➡️ Registration: by 27 August 2025 by email to .

Further information about the event:

• The format is in person.
• The event language is German. Interaction in English is possible.
• If you have any accessibility requirements, please send a message to .