With the study-accompanying measure students of the faculties I-IV *, who are in the final phase of their Master studies, should be able to orientate themselves in relation to a scientific career or doctorate. It aims to provide basic knowledge about the PhD phase (financing options, working techniques and strategies, life situation, etc.) as well as to create a space of experimentation and reflection for one's own strengths and weaknesses.

Within a period of six months and, if possible, parallel to writing the thesis

• 
students take part in workshops (kick-off, clarification of the motivation for a doctorate, drafting an idea sketch, application and presentation techniques, decision-making),
• they are accompanied and networked by mentors (postdocs),
• they can exchange ideas in self-organized working groups and
• attend other events such as lectures, doctoral colloquia, workshops and conferences.

Through these elements the participants become more familiar with the doctoral cultures. As a result, there can be a sketch of ideas that can be turned into an exposé - or even the well-considered decision against a doctorate.