Mentor Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the  training session is? How long will it go for?

Mentor  training usually takes place during the University O week. Training  should run for approximately 2 hours.
  The Mentoring Program Coordinators will communicate details to you, on  training sessions, social events and other meetings via email.  Therefore, it is VERY important that you check your University email  account regularly.

How long does the program run for?

The Undergraduate Mentoring Program runs for a total of 3 weeks from the beginning  of semester. The Postgraduate Mentoring Program runs for a total of 5 weeks from the beginning  of semester.

What if I can't make it  to the training session?

There will be only one 'catch up' training session for  those who could not make it to the initial training session. This will  also be held during O week. If you can not make it to the catch up  session, we may have to resign your position as a mentor depending on your current knowledge of Mentoring. This decision will be dependant on the Mentoring Program Coordinators' discretion.

Do I get paid?

Mentoring is a voluntary role designed to assist students in  settling in to the University learning community. Although you will not be getting any payment, some of the many benefits you will gain are; service skills, social skills, certificates, free social events and  prizes such as movie and Co-Op vouchers.

What do I need to do on Orientation Day?

Orientation Day is the most important day of the mentoring calendar. It is the day when mentees initially meet their mentors, create a meeting schedule and take mentees them on a tour of the university (undergraduate). You will receive an email prior to Orientation Day detailing the time and meeting place for mentors.

How do I get in touch with my mentees?

On Orientation Day, the Mentoring Program Coordinators will issue you with your group number and a list of all your mentees along with  their phone numbers and email addresses. Usually students prefer email  communication. You must receive permission from your mentees to be able  to contact them via phone.

Can I add extra new students to my group?

No doubt on Orientation Day you will receive in your group a bulk of  students that have not been officially allocated a mentor. Please  advise  the Mentoring Program Coordinators of  new additions to your group by emailing the appropriate undergraduate or postgraduate address. This is VERY important as it ensure all our  records and reporting systems are accurate.

How many meetings should  I have with the group?

The Mentoring Program insists on a minimum of 3 meetings per semester. This should occur within the timeframe that the Mentoring  Program outlines. Although not compulsory, you are encouraged to organise additional meetings and events for your mentees. This would  help you build a rapport with your mentees and also build their confidence in regards to meeting other students.

What if no one wants to participate in activities?

You can only encourage your mentees to participate; you can not  force them to do anything they don?t want to. Usually the mentee is a  new local or international student and very nervous about starting at a  new university or coming to a new country. Thus, inclusion is important. Try and gently encourage them to participate. Once you have  their dedication to the program, they will begin to feel part of the learning community.

When will the social events take place?

Social event dates and times are pre-organised by the Mentoring Program Coordinators. Please check your University email regularly for the dates and times of social events.

Can we organise our own  additional events?

Absolutely - we encourage you to organise additional outings and/or  meetings with your mentees. You might like to get together with other  mentors and do something with a larger group of mentees.