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Become a peer mentor
If you're in at least your second year of an undergraduate course or second semester of a postgraduate course at the University, you may be able to volunteer as a peer mentor to help new students settle in to university life. This will give you the opportunity to develop valuable leadership and mentoring skills.
Overview
Many faculties at the University run peer mentoring programs at the start of semester. These programs match new undergraduate or postgraduate students with a mentor, either individually or in small groups.
The programs vary from faculty to faculty, but generally mentors need to be senior students in at least their second year of undergraduate study or second semester of postgraduate study at the University.
What’s involved
Mentor roles are volunteer positions and you may need to complete training activities before starting in your role.
You will be allocated a small group of students to mentor, and depending on the program can work either individually or in teams. Most programs start during Faculty Welcome Week, the week before classes begin each semester, where you will meet your students, participate in welcome activities and provide your first mentoring session.
Generally you’ll need to be available for your students to contact during the first few weeks of semester, to answer any questions or provide information about university life. You may need to organise further mentoring sessions or activities during this time.
In some cases, you may need to complete a report or feedback on the program.
Responsibilities
Your responsibilities as a mentor will include:
- providing support, practical information and advice about your faculty and the University
- directing students to resources and support services on campus
- sharing your knowledge and experiences
- being available to answer questions
- giving encouragement and helping students build personal relationships with fellow students
- arranging activities or mentoring sessions where required.
As a mentor, you do not provide academic advice, tutoring to your students or counselling in situations where professional advice is needed.
Benefits of being a mentor
As a peer mentor, you may have the opportunity to:
- receive free training in group leadership, communication and interpersonal skills
- gain a certificate or recognition from your faculty when you complete the program requirements
- increase confidence, develop intercultural skills and experience in leading a team
- gain satisfaction through helping others
- make new friends and widen your networks.
Last updated: 10 August 2023
