University of Tasmania, Australia

How the Mentor Program works at the School of Human Life Sciences 

Starting at University can be a difficult time for some students. Depending on individual circumstances it can involve juggling work, home and study commitments. Some students have been out of the education system for some time. To someone new and unfamiliar with university it can seem overwhelming or maybe just confusing and tough.

The Mentor system aims to assist students make this transition more smoothly, thus maximising their chances of academic success. Its purpose is to minimise the 'culture shock' of being a new student on a new campus, often in a new city, state or even country.

A mentor is someone who:

• assists new students to find their way through the first weeks at university
• helps new students access resources available to them, such as the Library
• supports new students in the transition of beginning university
• helps new students gain confidence

At the School of Human Life Science, we have asked a number of Bachelor of Exercise Science, Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Health Science Degree students to consider mentoring one or more Year 1 students.

A mentor is not someone who:

• has all the answers
• solves all the new students' problems
• is a counsellor
• is available 24 hours a day
• writes essays for mentees

However they will:

• have a list of contact people who new students can be referred to
• be available regularly (exact meeting times to be decided between mentor and mentees)
• be able to guide new students through the maze of beginning university
• be able to answer questions or refer to people who do have the answers

All mentors undertake a one-day training program in early February to prepare them for their responsibilities. They meet regularly with a contact staff member at the School of Human Life Sciences (the Year 1 Coordinator) and also work with student counsellors who help to supervise their work as a mentor.

Tracy Douglas
Contact Details