The BayernMentoring program kicked off another round this year at Hof University of Applied Sciences. A total of four pairs—consisting of experienced female mentors and female students at the beginning of their professional careers—gathered last year for the kickoff event on October 30, 2025, at the Einstein1 Digital Startup Center. After numbers had dropped during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the Women’s Affairs Office team is pleased that more female students are once again showing interest in the program.
What is BayernMentoring?
BayernMentoring is a Bavaria-wide program designed to support female students in their fifth semester. It helps young women develop their personal and professional goals, build self-confidence, and gain direction for their career paths. Through guidance from an experienced mentor, as well as regular meetings and workshops, the female students can specifically strengthen their professional and personal skills. In addition, they gain valuable insights into various professional fields. The program also helps them build a sustainable and motivating network.
Kickoff Event
The event began with a keynote speech on the topic of “Financial Independence” by Martina Feddrich. During their studies and as they enter the workforce, many young people face important decisions that shape their future. Nevertheless, the topic of money is often pushed aside or not actively addressed until much later. The participants received information on financial basics, stocks, and ETFs. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that the participants should have the courage and self-confidence to take charge of their own finances.
Following the presentation, the four mentees took the opportunity to engage in an open discussion with the speaker, the mentors, and the Women’s Affairs Office team. In a relaxed atmosphere, they shared personal impressions, delved deeper into questions, and forged initial connections for the upcoming mentoring year. Over a light buffet, interesting conversations took place, new contacts were made, and a lively exchange ensued, which rounded off the evening perfectly.
A Fitting Conclusion
The BayernMentoring program concluded with a closing event on June 16 at the café “Zur Auszeit.” The focus was on the workshop “Recognizing Discrimination in the Workplace and Taking Effective Action,” led by speaker Mandy Sabisch. The participants explored how to recognize discrimination in a work context, how to assess such situations, and what courses of action are available for both those affected and bystanders. Following the workshop, the group concluded the evening with a shared dinner in a pleasant atmosphere.
BayernMentoring will also launch a new round at the university in October 2026. Interested female students are cordially invited to join the program and benefit from the diverse opportunities for exchange and personal development.
