Great ideas, everyone! 
Some ideas I had related to this are in this topic (shameful plug).
So, for example, one of the first missions of a young mage would be to recruit or train his own team of "specialists".
I'd add they may also be asked to explore a specific location, obtaining information on other magi ( favored arts and spells, Parma strength...) and how best to defeat/ incapacitate / delay them. Don't forget the psychological: If a maga may be distracted by destroying her hometown, or by a troubadour's songs, this is still useful information 
This may include other PCs 
EDIT (28/07/2024): Agencies (from HoH: S) can also be a source of inspirations: Your young tremere may be asked to make some important mundane their agent (possibly by digging, or creating, dirt on them), or favorising the rise in power of one of their pawns.