The University of Potsdam - A portrait
Studying
Children and Career
Equal Opportunities for Men and Women at a Family-Friendly University
Foto: Th. Roese
It is not easy to accommodate family, study, and work - but it is possible. It requires determination and a strong will, but also organizational talent and a reliable network. The University of Potsdam does its part in meeting this challenge and is committed to being a family-friendly place.
Baby strollers on campus, three-year-olds at the library, and families at the cafeteria are already everyday occurrences at the university. At all three locations, parent-child rooms offer space to play and work. Here, young mothers and fathers can take care of their babies in a relaxed atmosphere.
"At the University of Potsdam, we are proud that equal rights
and family-friendliness are not just statements on paper."
Barbara Schrul,
Equal Opportunity Commissioner
Photo: private
While the parents are studying, researching, attending lecture or giving one themselves, their "little Einsteins" can go to the day care center "klEinstein." The university's own family service arranges for placement in day care as well as additional flexible care options. At academic conferences, the family service comes prepared with furniture and toys to take care of the scholars' children.
The family service also gives special support to students who are expecting a child. They need extensive assistance in reorganizing their daily student life, in managing their finances, and in taking care of administrative issues. Sometimes simply offering the opportunity to talk to other parents about their fears and worries can be of great help in understanding how one can manage being student and parent at the same time.
Employees of the university have very similar questions - no matter whether they are a secretary, Ph.D. candidate, or junior professor. The beginning of a career - when professional and family planning intersect - is an especially sensitive stage in life. Here, the university constantly demonstrates its devotion to being a family-friendly place.
