The individual consulting sessions offered through the Graduate Academy are a central component of career consulting for doctoral candidates in the second half of their doctoral studies. They offer targeted support tailored to each doctoral candidate’s personal goals, strengths, and challenges, with the aim of facilitating the transition from doctoral studies to a sustainable and fulfilling career.

Each counseling session lasts 60 minutes and is scheduled individually. The counseling process consists of several steps:

Preliminary Consultation (initial discussion, approx. 15 minutes, also available by phone):
A brief initial discussion helps clarify professional interests, the current situation, and expectations for the consulting. During this session, initial questions regarding career goals, potential career fields, and personal challenges are discussed. This allows for targeted preparation for the main session.

Main Counseling Session (60 minutes):
During this central session, in-depth coaching is provided, based on the following components:

• Self-reflection and skills analysis:
  Using structured questions, you will reflect on your personality, motivation, strengths, and areas for development. Particular emphasis is placed on identifying transferable skills gained during your Ph.D.—such as project management, analytical thinking, publication skills, teaching experience, teamwork, and communication.

   

• Career Orientation:
  Together, we explore potential career paths in academia (postdoc, research assistant, professorship), business (research & development, consulting, industry, startups), public administration, nonprofit organizations, media, politics, or other sectors. Current trends, job requirements, and career paths are discussed in detail.

   

• Goal Setting and Strategy Development:
  The counselor assists in formulating clear, realistic, and achievable career goals (short-, medium-, and long-term). From this, a personalized career strategy is developed that includes concrete steps, timelines, and actions—e.g., application strategies, continuing education, networking, etc.

   

• Application Strategy and Document Optimization:
  Practical advice on resumes, cover letters, letters of motivation, and application portfolios. The specific requirements of various professional fields are addressed. Special attention is paid to “translating” academic experience into professional language (e.g., “leading a research project” → “project management with budget responsibility”).

   

Follow-up Consultation (optional):
A follow-up meeting (approx. 30–45 minutes) can be scheduled after 4–6 weeks to discuss progress.