Studying as a hurdle: How working-class children can realize their dreams

Studying as a hurdle: How working-class children can realize their dreams

Studying - a dream that often seems like an almost unattainable goal for many young people from working-class families. In Germany, the parental home has a decisive influence on the decision to pursue an academic career: While almost 80% of children from academic families start studying, the figure is only around 25% of young people from families without university experience ( ndr.de ). This discrepancy is reflected not only in the number of admissions, but also in the challenges that first-time graduates face on their way to university.

For many students from working-class families, safe, practical courses are the first step. They often choose shorter programs because their family environment does not recognize such academic ambitions. The lack of role models is a massive hurdle: students have to acquire a lot of information themselves, be it about applications, exams or organizing their studies. Around 20% of those from working-class families experience difficulties, while only 11% of the children of academics have to struggle with this. This stress often leads to psychological pressure and self-doubt, also known as imposter syndrome. Those affected often believe that their successes are not deserved and fear being exposed as impostors ( project.uni-stuttgart.de ).

Financial concerns and support systems

One of the main concerns for students from working-class families is financing their studies. Many are dependent on BAföG and often have to work more than 17 hours a week to make ends meet. Student Madeleine Krause reports on her financial difficulties and the need to take on a mini-job. These conditions also lead to tensions in the family environment, as parents often want to support a quick career start and cannot understand the value of studying.

In Schleswig-Holstein there are various initiatives that offer support for first-time academics. The General Student Committee (AStA) helps with BAföG and social advice. The Schleswig-Holstein Student Union also offers social and psychological advice. There are also organizations such as ArbeiterKind.de that support those seeking higher education in choosing a course of study, financing and scholarships. Recent groups in cities like Neumünster show that these initiatives are finding growing interest in giving students from non-academic families a better chance.

Equal opportunities in education

The education system plays a crucial role in the issue of equal opportunities. The concept of meritocracy states that individual achievements and abilities should determine social positions and distribution of power ( bpb.de ). In theory, children from socially disadvantaged families could have the same opportunities as their peers with a good education. But in reality this is often not the case. Educational inequalities not only influence university entrance rates, but also have a negative impact on employment opportunities, income and social participation.

It is clear that reforms in the education system are needed to reduce these inequalities. A holistic approach that also includes social and labor market policy could help to improve the living conditions of those affected and make the meritocratic ideal a reality. Initiatives that focus on education and social advancement opportunities are essential.