Alumni Support International Talents Entering the German Job Market
In 2022, the second run of the mentoring program Tandem2Job took place, in which experienced professionals accompany international students of TU Dortmund University for six months during their transition from studies to the job market. The International Office coordinates the program, which is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and in which students can reflect on their personal career goals with the experienced professionals in one-to-one mentoring.
Twelve international students started the program in mid-May 2022 to discuss their personal career concerns with mentors from regional and national companies. The mentors provided guidance during this challenging phase of transition between studying and starting a job.
This is shown by the comments of some 2022 participants: "Participating in the Tandem2Job mentoring program was very worthwhile for me because I was always supported by an experienced person in my job search. I feel confirmed that I have chosen exactly the right profession and will continue to develop." Another participant adds, "Through the program, you get to meet great people." The mentors also give the mentees an exclusive insight into the professional world and help them expand their network.
The mentors were TU Dortmund alumni who are now working successfully in companies in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, mechanical engineering and automation, construction, insurance, retail, healthcare or a software startup. Some of them have an international background themselves or have worked internationally for many years. They appreciated the intercultural and professional exchange and took great pleasure in accompanying the international talents during their career entry: "It was so refreshing to be able to work with students again after a long separation from academia, and that also on such a central issue as finding the right first job. Today I know that this was the most important switch in my professional life!" says one mentor. Another mentor adds: "It was so easy to support my mentee in entering the German job market. For us mentors, it's a small thing to provide guidance and security, but for our mentees it really means a lot and to feel the gratitude and appreciation is wonderful. I was also able to question some of my ways of thinking once again. I can really only encourage everyone to become a mentor themselves - you are changing lives!"
The one-to-one tandem mentoring was accompanied by exchange meetings for mentees and mentors. In addition, the mentees were able to participate in career-promoting measures such as workshops, the International Career Fair, as well as application or interview training and other offers from the Career Service of TU Dortmund University Stellenwerk. The program is to be continued next year.
