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Academic Orientation and Starting College

Talent Toolbox

A Toolbox © Canva

The TalenteToolBox is a flexible program of events designed specifically for high school students interested in pursuing higher education. These events complement the scouting interviews and address frequently asked questions in a consolidated format. The goal is to provide young talents with optimal support on their journey from high school to college and to offer them valuable information and guidance.

Academic Guidance and Application

Shaking Hands © Canva

This presentation offers high school students interested in pursuing higher education an overview of the different types of colleges and universities and available degree programs.

Key topics:

  • Different types of higher education institutions and forms of study
  • Introduction to academic departments and degree programs
  • Structure of a degree program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, credit points, etc.)

In-person or online

In this presentation, high school students interested in college will receive guidance on choosing a major.

Key topics:

  • What constitutes an informed choice of major?
  • The role of strengths and interests
  • How to research degree programs
  • Decision-making resources and online tools for guidance

In-person or online

A puzzle piece is placed into a puzzle © Canva
A Compass © Canva

In this workshop, students will learn to use methods for self-orientation and self-reflection to make it easier to find the right college majors.

Key topics:

  • Working with the Strengths Card Set
  • Practical exercises in researching degree programs
  • Researching degree programs with AI

In-person or online

This presentation offers students step-by-step guidance on the college application process. Includes an interactive quiz!

Key Topics:

  • Introduction to the application process
  • Everything You Need to Know About the NC
  • Important deadlines and documents
  • Tips for successful enrollment

In-person or online

A pen is lying on top of the application materials © Canva

Preparation for College and Skills

A teacher is standing in front of the class © Canva

In this workshop, students can get a glimpse of the future and begin to explore the differences between high school and college.

Key topics:

  • New requirements at college (semester planning, types of exams, study methods)
  • Organizing daily life as a college student (financial aid, housing, leisure activities)

This event can serve as a foundation for the “Crash Course in Academic Skills.”

In-person or online

This crash course introduces students to skills that make the transition to college easier and contribute to long-term academic success.

Key Topics:

  • Self-management and time management
  • Study and work techniques
  • Self-motivation and goal setting
  • Financing Your Education

In-person or online

A mind is full of ideas © Canva
A cable car gondola is going up © Canva

This presentation explores the unique challenges and opportunities associated with being the first in your family to pursue a college degree.

Key topics:

  • Reflection on one’s own educational background
  • Counseling and support services
  • The importance of role models and networks
  • Funding programs (scholarships, study abroad opportunities, etc.)

In-person or online

Open Q&A Session

Someone asks a question, and someone answers it © Canva

In this open Q&A session, students have the opportunity to ask questions about college and career guidance. As soon as a group of at least five students has compiled a list of questions, teachers or schools can request a digital appointment on short notice.

Minimum number of participants: 5 students

Detailed list of events available for download

How can schools take advantage of this opportunity?

The Talent Toolbox is a needs-based program offered by TU Dortmund University. Like talent scouting sessions, all events can take place during school hours or be integrated into cross-curricular projects (orientation days/fairs, theme/project weeks, methodology days, etc.).

If interested, the school can proactively reach out to discuss details and select appropriate modules for its students.


If you're interested or have any questions, please feel free to contact us: