Accessibility

All students who encounter barriers in their studies due to mental, physical and sensory characteristics can register for the ZAB peer mentoring programme until 13th April 2025.

All information on how to participate can be found on our website (https://www.uni-bielefeld.de/einrichtungen/zab/studierende/studieren/studienstart-barrierefrei/).

One participant reports on how students can benefit from taking part:

"I enjoyed participating in "Studienstart Barrierefrei" from the very beginning. I have been a mentor since the start of the peer mentoring programme and have always felt that I was in good hands. Whether I had questions or wanted to give feedback, the project coordinator was always there to support me.

The tandem was particularly enriching for me. The exchange on an equal footing not only gave me the opportunity to make it easier for my mentees to start their studies, but also sensitised my own perspective. I learnt a lot about how different and individual barriers can be.

The supporting programme was also helpful and very interesting. The workshops on study and disability-related topics opened up new perspectives for me. By regularly dealing with my own impairment - whether in dialogue with other participants or in reflection - I developed a better understanding of myself. I was able to develop strategies to deal with the barriers in my studies and also to manage my own disability and illness. I learnt to take my needs seriously and to plan my everyday study life in a resource-oriented way.

Another big plus for me was the social component of the programme. I made real friends through the games evenings, mentor meetings and café get-togethers. The programme was an important anchor for me, especially during the semester break - it helped me to feel less lonely.

I also made valuable contacts through "Studienstart Barrierefrei". Getting to know some of the consultants for the first time during the Studienstart Barrierefrei events made it easier for me to make use of the various counselling and support services offered by the university."