Follow me, I know the way Dr. Mary Maclachlan

Mentor scheme mentor noun 1. an experienced and trusted advisor

Vision Each final year student would be assigned an industry mentor to enhance student experience and support transition to employment.

Expectations Mentors would provide some guidance and feedback on the students work and career aspirations Mentors would be encouraged to share their journey and insight to the industry

Launch

Events

Benefits “Its really refreshing to be able to pass on advice and inspiration and know someone is directly benefiting” “Feeling like I had something to give” “Made me understand how much knowledge I have gained since University” “Its really satisfying to help someone at the beginning of their career” “It was a good refection on my final year” “Was good to give back” “Someone I could contact for advice” “Good to know what employers really think” “Spending time at their workplace” “Getting advice from industry experts” “Learning more about the industry itself” “Having contacts within the industry” “Getting help with job applications”

Support Feedback on work Placements Advice on portfolio and CV Advice on job applications General confidence boosting

Challenges Time to meet Encouraging the student to make contact Limited face to face contact Reluctance for students to show work in progress Lack of structure/format

Improvements Advice on how to make the most of having a mentor More orgainsed events/ meet ups Encourage students to get in touch more More structure – Expectations of support

Mentors “Do it! Think how much you would have appreciated this opportunity as a student. To know a face in the industry is reassuring and would make leaving University that little bit less daunting “ Would you recommend others to become mentors? Yes - 100% Would you like to be a mentor again Yes - 100%

Students “One of the highlights of Uni for me. It gave me so much confidence at a time when I really needed it and made me realise that getting a job in the industry was an achievable goal” Would you like to be a mentor when you graduate? 92% - Yes 83% - Increased confidence 83% - Increased networking skills 75% - Increased employability

Reflection A community Growth in confidence Stronger links with industry Enhanced student experience Enhanced employability

Thank you