The number of first time students increases, but about a third drop out of university after only a few semesters. For many, this was a difficult, but ultimately right decision.
Although the number of first time students increases year by year, many drop out of university after only a few semesters; in some subjects almost half fail to complete their course.
Yet the difficult decision to drop out of university needs not signify failure, but can be the start of a professional career. Many businesses compete for university dropouts, because they have a shortage of apprentices.
A second start is not a stigma
Owing to a fast-forward university entrance qualification and early school enrolment, more and more youths face an important decision as early as at 17 years of age: vocational education and training? Dual system degree course? University of applied sciences or university? Or a voluntary social year first? Join the Bundeswehr armed forces? Or go travel the world first?
It is not easy at such a young age to make a fully informed decision that will influence one's entire future life. A mistake is part of it, including the opportunity for a fresh start. Curricula vitae are no longer as straightforward as those of previous generations.
Vocational training and academic education are becoming more flexible and varied. Universities and businesses are beginning to adapt to the changing demands. What often is lacking before graduating from school is in-depth guidance and counselling regarding potential career paths. Many first time students and apprentices have little clue as to what awaits them. Here, the schools are challenged to provide better guidance.
Industry woos university dropouts
Every fourth or even more bachelor students discontinue their course prematurely. More and more businesses woo this group due to the skilled labour shortage. This is precisely the group of people that companies increasingly target. "Many businesses like to draw on university dropouts", says Ulrich Ernst, Head of Department Vocational Education and Training at the IHK Mittleres Ruhrgebiet (Chamber of Commerce Central Ruhr Region). "They have life experience and are qualified."
The IHK already closely co-operates with universities and student counsellors in order to establish as smooth a contact as possible. "We point the young people towards alternatives, advise them and facilitate job interviews", says Ernst.
Since early 2013, the IHK has already conducted as many as 150 counselling interviews with university dropouts. Often, their university credits are being recognised and direct access to vocational education and training is possible. "For some we recommend attendance of a training course first. What businesses appreciate in particular: when university dropouts are given a fresh opportunity, they often are particularly motivated."