Aspect Social background
From a diversity-sensitive perspective, social background refers to the socio-cultural and economic heritage that every person carries with them through birth and socialisation. From a discrimination-sensitive perspective, social background is characterised by an unequal distribution of resources. Social background becomes a discriminatory factor when people are exposed to prejudice, treated in a derogatory manner, disadvantaged or excluded due to their social background and position.
Social origin becomes a discriminatory factor when people are exposed to prejudice, treated in a derogatory manner, disadvantaged or excluded because of their social origin and position.
Social background in studies, research and employment
In the context of higher education, social background has a particular impact on students' access to higher education, academic success, progression and funding. This is shown by the Higher Education Report. Exclusion mechanisms caused by habitus, exclusionary subject cultures, precarious working conditions, a lack of networks and role models also play a decisive role in academic careers at universities.
Making connections - empowerment and networking
There are now a large number of organisations and initiatives aimed at first-generation students that offer networks, exchange and guidance. A regional group of Arbeiterkind.de is active in Heidelberg. Once a month, committed members meet for a get-together in Marstallhof. Interested people are always welcome to attend. The Erste Generation Promotion association offers support for people who are the first in their family to start a doctorate. Netzwerk Chancen strengthens young people from non-academic families and supports them in starting their careers. The speed up Buddy association also offers mentoring for first-generation students
The inclusive network ADAN (Afro Deutsches Akademiker Netzwerk), which emerged from a Frankfurt student initiative, focuses on supporting Afro-German first-generation students.