Big Sister - Mentoring and Networking

About Big Sister

Big Sister at TU Darmstadt is a program designed to support international female students and female students with migration history to connect and network with each other. Different events that provide opportunities for you to meet other women and exchange views and experiences are offered. A variety of topics and needs, such as relevant study and career tips, ideas for leisure time and living in Darmstadt, and preparing for exams together while learning different techniques are covered. Join us and become part of a community of like-minded women who are committed to supporting each other and achieving their goals!

Upcoming events and Information

Application deadline for the mentoring: October 31st 2023.

No applications will be accepted after this date. You can join our regular network meetings at any time. If you're interested, please get in touch with the project coordinator.

17 May, 5:30 pm – Closing Event

Feel free to get in touch with the project coordinator should you wish to take part.

Since its launch back in 2013, more than 400 female students from 27 study programs have participated in the Big Sister program, benefitting from the wealth of support and resources on offer.

Big Sister Networking invites all female students of the TU Darmstadt to participate in regular group meetings to discuss topics relevant to their studies and network with other participants.The program offers an opportunity to learn about relevant aspects of studying and living in Darmstadt.Particularly welcome are international female students and female students with a migration history from the field of STEM studies (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology).

Big Sister Mentoring:

The mentoring within the Big Sister program provides a safe and supportive space to discuss any concerns or problems you may be facing. Whether you need help with time management, language barriers or cultural adjustment, the Big Sister mentors (advanced female students) are here to help.

Big Sister Networking:

The networking within Big Sister is designed to connect female students of TU Darmstadt and create a supportive community. Our regular group meetings cover topics relevant to your studies and help you network with other students.

The program culminates in our popular Networking Evening, where you can learn from experienced mentors and expand your professional network. Join us to connect with other students and expand your horizons.

The program is conducted in both German and English, ensuring that all participants can easily follow and engage with the discussions and activities.

Are you a female student at TU Darmstadt with a passion for helping others succeed? If so, consider becoming a mentor through the Big Sister program. As a mentor, you'll have the chance to support up to 3 mentees in a small group, sharing your knowledge and experiences on topics related to studying and life in Germany. And as part of the program, you'll have access to a supportive community of like-minded women, committed to helping each other grow and thrive.

If you are a student who is looking for support and advice on living and studying in Germany, you are encouraged to apply to be a mentee in the Big Sister program. Although the program's main goal is to support international female students or female students with a migration history, all students are welcome to participate, regardless of their degree program or semester.

We understand that not every applicant may find a suitable match, as the availability of mentors/mentees can vary depending on departmental representation and other factors. However, we encourage interested individuals to still apply and take advantage of the networking opportunities provided by the program.

Are you interested in participating in the mentoring program for the winter semester 2023/2024?

The first step is to fill out the application form on this page by October 31st 2023.

After submitting your application, you will be invited for a meeting to discuss your interests and needs. This will enable the program coordinators to find the best match for you. Once a suitable match is found, you will be notified and the program will officially start with a kick-off event on November 21st 2023.

If you're not a mentor or mentee, don't worry! You can still participate in our network meetings and events. Just contact us at to find out more..

The official mentoring period begins on November 21st, 2023 and concludes with the closing event on June 30th, 2024. However, participants can stay in touch after the program ends if they wish to.

For the most effective mentoring experience, it is recommended that teams meet once a month for at least 1.5 hours..

There is no limit on how often you can participate. In fact, some previous mentees have even returned to participate as mentors themselves.

Yes, a certificate of participation is awarded to all mentoring participants upon successful completion of the program. To be eligible for the certificate, regular attendance is required in the group meetings and mentoring sessions.

Center for Educational Development and Technology A central service facility targeting students, teaching staff and faculty, offering qualification and quality development programmes.
Language Resource Center of TU Darmstadt Offers language courses and other services for all students and staff of TU Darmstadt.
Evangelische Studierenden- und Hochschulgemeinde (ESG) Workshops and other offers for students.
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