Mentoring programs in Australia
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Improve study skills, experience a warm welcome and get easily adjusted
We recognize that as an international student, feeling overwhelmed upon being accepted by your desired university abroad is entirely natural. This significant milestone marks the commencement of your journey in an entirely new part of the world.
To facilitate a smooth transition into university life, Australian universities have developed a mentoring program specifically tailored to offer support to international students. This initiative includes assigning a mentor as your point of contact, who will assist you throughout your journey. Through this program, you’ll receive both social and academic support through peer relationships, as your mentor will connect you with a supportive and secure peer support network.
Who are these mentors?
The mentors are a mix of local and international university students who work together to support new students from the time they arrive in the country. They stay by your side when you attend your orientation and are available whenever you might need support throughout the semester.
| Benefits of Mentoring programs |
| Help build network with the university peer groups |
| Feel safe and protected while seeking help |
| Enhance confidence and communication skills |
| Get a chance to participate in extra-curricular activities which can be reflected on CV and LinkedIn |
| Get accustomed to Australian culture, cuisine, and other things |
| Information on relevant workshops and seminars will be readily available |
| Understand different ways of learning and working while performing a group task |
Let’s understand the role of a mentor
Each mentor is given the responsibility to handle a group of first-year students from within their department for nearly the first five weeks of the semester. During this time, they organise weekly meetings in small groups which include activities and relevant topics of discussion like academic requirements, on-campus support services and many more such things.
Note: Mentors are also available on text, e-mails, and phone to support you
| Role of a mentor |
| Provide access to the existing student network on campus |
| Create awareness about student support services offered by the university |
| Make you understand the lingo and academic standards |
| Basic understanding about transition issues that you might face in the first year |
| Design a framework for a productive interaction between new students, staff, and mentors |
| Enables new students to deal with the challenges and take up opportunities offered by the university |
How to get connected with your mentor?
Your orientation will be the most crucial for you as a first-year student since it will give you a head-start in understanding the expectation of the study program. Besides, during this time you’ll meet your mentor, if not then, during your first week. Further, once you complete your enrolment, you’ll receive communication from your mentor to connect. If you do not receive any information, you can reach out to your university’s international office.
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