From special needs pupil to student teacher and scholarship holder
Tommy Köhler completed his Abitur at the Märkischer Kreis vocational college in Iserlohn. He is now studying social sciences and German language and literature at TU Dortmund University, holds a scholarship from the German Industry Foundation and is involved in NRW talent scouting as a TU guide and talent mentor. The initial impetus came from talent scout Eric, whom Tommy met at the Dortmund University Days. He then joined the TU Guide team via peer coordinator Emily Weidle. In this interview, Tommy talks about how he made the leap from special needs pupil to university, what really sets scholarships apart and why volunteering is part of studying for him.
How did you come across talent scouting in the first place?
It was pure coincidence. There was a workshop on scholarships at the Dortmunder Hochschultage 2024. I met Eric Tilly there, told him about my situation - first-time graduate, no one in my family studying - and asked if he could support me. He immediately said "sure" - and so I was in the program.
What topics did you talk to Eric about most often?
Initially, it was about choosing a subject. I definitely wanted to study to become a teacher, but I wasn't sure which subjects. Eric had done a teaching degree himself and had a lot of experience to share. After that, the focus was almost exclusively on scholarships: which foundation is right, how do you write the application, how do you prepare for the selection interview?
You were eventually accepted into the Studienkolleg of the Stiftung der Deutschen Wirtschaft. How has your image of scholarships changed?
I used to think that scholarships were only for geniuses with straight A's or for people with influential parents. Eric explained to me that there is a really broad scholarship culture in the Ruhr region and that commitment, responsibility and determination are more important. Today I know that scholarships want to support those who want to overcome obstacles and make a difference.
Were there any doubts on your way to becoming a teacher - and how do you deal with them?
There are always doubts. During your studies, you also learn things that you suspect you will hardly need later, and other important content is not (yet) covered. Then I say to myself: the degree is a means to an end. I need it to become a teacher - so I'll go through with it.
What do you do as a TU-Guide?
I accompany pupils during their study orientation, show them the campus and answer questions about subjects or everyday university life. Right now, I'm helping a student who is interested in Applied Linguistics - my impressions from my first semester of German Studies are still very fresh.
And how is your role as a talent mentor different?
As a talent mentor, I am a multiplier for talent scouting: I can refer first-year students or potential scholarshipholders in my area to scouts, proofread applications and generally encourage them. The TU-Guides focus on my study experiences at TU Dortmund University.
What advice would you give to young people who are still hesitating about whether studying is the right thing for them?
Try it out! The worst thing is to regret later that you never took the plunge. Changing subjects or even dropping out is no longer a drama. You're young, you have room to maneuver - and if you don't even try your dream, you might drag it around with you for the rest of your life.
You do voluntary work on the side. Why is that important to you?
Whether it's the TU-Guide, a talent mentor or projects in my home town - volunteering gives me the feeling of giving something back to society. You also get to know people that you would otherwise never meet. I think that's what really rounds off my studies.