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. 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. 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

The application period for participation in mentoring for 2024/2025 is unfortunately over. The new application round starts in September 2025!

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 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.

The new application round starts in September 2025!

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.

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 in January 2025, and concludes with the closing event in June 2025. 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.
International Career Service Rhein-Main The ICS RM offers international students and students with a history of migration support on topics such as career entry, career counselling and passes on knowledge and skills for the working world.

Big Sister review 2013-2020