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The TUM-GS supports First-Generation Academics with various offers to help them succeed in their doctorate (graphic: TUM-GS)

First-Generation Academics

Paving Your Own Path

Being a first-generation academic means you are the first in your family to pursue higher education. First-generation academics in the TUM Community have already overcome many challenges and forged their personal path. The journey from secondary education to a doctoral degree is not always easy. Statistics show that first-generation students are less likely to pursue higher education, and even fewer continue on to a doctorate. 

Navigating Two Worlds

First-generation academics often describe the university environment as unfamiliar compared to their upbringing. It may feel like navigating between two worlds, with academic norms and expectations that can seem alienating. This feeling of not belonging is more common than you might think, but they shouldn’t hold you back. You are not alone, and TUM offers numerous resources, support structures, and networking opportunities to help you thrive during your doctoral journey. We invite you to browse the numerous information resources below and choose the ones that suit your needs the most. 

In a Nutshell: Challenges for First-Generation Academics

First-generation academics often encounter unique challenges on their path to a doctorate. These can include mental barriers, such as feelings of not belonging or dealing with imposter syndrome. The mental barriers can arise when you're the first in your family to enter academia and may lack role models. Another common issue is missing out on important information, as first-generation students have less access to informal networks that offer advice on the academic journey, funding options, and career paths. Financial worries also play a big role, with many students uncertain about how to fund their doctorate or whether it will be worth it in the long run. These obstacles can make it difficult for talented first-generation students to start or finish their doctorate. You can find more insights and detailed statistics in our info sheet “Doing a Doctorate as First-Generation Academic: Statistics and Trends”.

Offers of the TUM Graduate School

With our events for first-generation academics in our TUM community, we support both doctoral candidates and Master's students considering a doctorate. Our programs address the specific challenges faced by many first-generation academics and provide the tools to overcome them – such as networking opportunities or support from a mentor.

Every year, the TUM Graduate School hosts an information and networking event at TUM campus Garching-Forschungszentrum. This event offers insights into the challenges faced by first-generation academics, practical advice, and introductions to support services both within and outside TUM. You'll also get to know successful first-generation academics and have time to network in a friendly, informal setting. 

Stay updated about upcoming events through our website and TUM-GS newsletter.

Left: First-Generation Academics networking event in May 2024 (Photo: TUM-GS)

We also offer a monthly virtual networking opportunity via Zoom. The meetings occur every third Wednesday of the month from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. During the meetings, you can connect with peers, ask practical questions (such as how to finance a doctorate), and learn more about the support available at TUM. To join, simply register by emailing Melanie Frank at melanie.frank(at)tum.de.

If you have specific questions or challenges and want to work on them with a professional coach, please get in touch with us for one-on-one coaching. The individual coaching offers counseling and advice for a restricted period regarding professional problems and conflicts. A coach assists you in addressing conflicts, problem-solving, or improving your learning skills and job performance. First-generation doctoral candidates can access up to four hours of free coaching, with appointments arranged through our highly qualified pool of academic and business sector coaches. The condition for participating consists of the completion of an online questionnaire at four points in time. Please get in contact with Anja Quindeau from TUM Gender & Diversity via quindeau(at)tum.de if you are interested in the individual coaching.

The Agnes Mackensen Program

The Agnes-Mackensen-Program, named after the first woman who obtained a diploma from TUM, aims to increase opportunities for women from non-academic backgrounds. This program focuses on mentoring, networking, and workshops, helping you build a strong foundation for your future as a scientist, startup founder, or leader. If you’re interested or need advice on the program, get in contact via diversity(at)tum.de.

Further Information

Internal Resources

  • Funding Your Doctorate: Learn about various funding options on our website.
  • The TUM doctoral community: The TUM Graduate School is committed to bringing together the doctoral community at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Strengthen your connection to the TUM doctoral community by exploring our offers here.
  • Insights and statistics: Download our PDF with more background information for insights and detailed statistics on how social origin influences educational paths.

External Resources

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