We hope we've answered your key Peer Mentoring questions below. For further information, just get in touch.
How much time do I have to dedicate to Peer Mentoring?
At the beginning of your mentoring relationship, we
recommend that you meet with your partner for about half an hour a week. The scheme is
flexible, however and designed to suit your individual needs and availability. After the first few
meetings, you may decide to do things differently. During busy periods, for example
exam time, you might not meet as often but keep in touch via e-mail,
text or phone instead.
Could I be a mentor?
Peer Mentoring is open to all Undergraduate students. As an Aston
student, you will already have all the knowledge you need to be a
mentor. Our dedicated team of staff will give you training and offer continued support throughout your involvement in the scheme.
Do mentors give specialist advice?
Peer Mentoring focuses on providing pastoral support
for students. If mentees require more specific advice than you are able to give, you can point them in the direction of one of Aston's
support services, accompanying them to an appointment if they request this.
Could I be a mentee?
Peer Mentoring is of benefit to all students, at every
stage of the University experience. You may be a first year new to
Birmingham and want some tips from someone who knows the area. You
might want some advice on
applying for a placement from someone
who has been through the process themselves or you might just want to talk to a second or third year about making the most of
your Aston experience. Whatever your course, year or situation, having
a mentor could make a big difference.
Will my mentor give me advice relating to my studies?
Your mentor is not an academic tutor. They may be studying the same course as you, but they cannot give you specific guidance on your work. Your mentor can, however, share their experiences of the course, give you advice on preparing for exams, tell you what to expect from future years of study and assist you with developing your study skills.
Can I choose my mentee or mentor?
Depending on the focus of the Peer Mentoring you are participating in, you could be matched on degree subject, placement area or career area. This matching is undertaken by the Learner Enhancement Team. It may be possible to match you on other preferences, such as gender or country of origin. We cannot accommodate mentees with long 'wish lists' of an ideal mentor - you will benefit from the mentoring process regardless of who you are paired with.
What if I don’t get on with my mentor or mentee?
Peer Mentoring has been running at Aston University successfully for a number of years and it is extremely rare for personality clashes to hinder mentoring. The Learner Enhancement Team is always available to address any concerns you may have.
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