What does a toolmaker actually do? What are the duties of a pharmacist? And what can you see through night-vision goggles? Questions like these—which are rarely answered during a typical school day—were the focus of the Career and College Orientation Day (BSO Day) at the Realschule plus Idar-Oberstein. About 190 students from the RSplus experienced a day that was quite different from their usual classes. Another 90 students from the Ida-Purper-Schule also benefited from this special event, participating as guests alongside their teachers.
As early as 6:30 a.m., the school grounds were already bustling with activity: vehicles rolled into the schoolyard, partition walls were set up, and numerous exhibits were prepared. A total of 23 companies, government agencies, and institutions from the region and beyond were on hand to give the young people an authentic glimpse into their professional worlds. What is often thought of as a traditional career fair evolved on-site into a lively, diverse, and impressive showcase of the region’s professional landscape.
“We want the students to take home more than just flyers—we want them to take home real experiences. That’s why we were so happy that so many companies actually brought items for the students to touch and try out—this is the result of intensive planning and close collaboration with the companies in the run-up to the event, and we’d like to express our sincere thanks for that,” said Julia Molter, vice principal of the Realschule plus Idar-Oberstein.
The wide range of participating companies and institutions made BSO Day a reflection of the regional job market. From the Idar-Oberstein Tax Office to Simona AG and Westnetz, and on to the University of Trier, the Idar-Oberstein Nursing School, and the Catholic KiTa gGmbH, the offerings spanned technology and industry, social services and healthcare, as well as retail, skilled trades, and the public sector. Things got particularly lively wherever the young people could get hands-on. At Müller Präzisionswerkzeuge and Herbert Stephan KG, they were able to try out tools and complete small hands-on tasks. Wolfgang Loch GmbH & Co. KG and Juchem KG vividly demonstrated the diversity of modern companies in the region.
Social service professions were also a focus. Pro Seniore and the Nurses’ Association provided insights into nursing, caregiving, and working with children. For many students who can envision a career in the social services sector, these discussions provided valuable guidance. The students also received support with questions about training, job applications, and career choices from the Employment Agency, which was also represented at the event.
One of the most impressive stops of the day was the Bundeswehr, which was represented by several units. The 345th Artillery Training Battalion displayed various large pieces of equipment in the schoolyard, giving the students a chance to get a feel for modern technology. Many took the opportunity to talk with soldiers and learn firsthand about their daily work. A night-vision obstacle course also generated particular excitement: Equipped with real night-vision goggles, the students were able to navigate a darkened course—an experience that left a lasting impression on many of them. The presentation was complemented by booths from the Medical Service, the Career Center, and the Bundeswehr Service Center, which together highlighted the diversity of military and civilian career opportunities.
The fact that BSO Day has now become an integral part of the school year was evident in the strong commitment of everyone involved. Students who usually seem tired during the first period were already curious and motivated early in the morning. The companies not only brought informational materials, but also vehicles, equipment, and, above all, their enthusiasm for their respective professions. It is precisely this authenticity that brings career orientation to life and creates valuable perspectives for the young people’s futures.
- Next year, the BSO Day at RSplus Idar-Oberstein will take place on Monday, May 24, 2027. Interested companies can register now by contacting Julia Molter by phone at 06781 645470 or by email at julia.molter@idar-oberstein.de.