Program structure

This program runs in semester 2 each year. If successful you'll be matched with a mentor based on factors including your career interests, area of work/study and the types of topics you'd like advice on. The program is facilitated by University staff who will support you and your mentor throughout the program.

• 5-month commitment running from July-November.
• Mentoring pairs are expected to meet at least 3 times over the course of the program.
• Frequency, length and format of meetings are negotiable, and discussed at your first meet.
• Your meeting schedule and mentoring goals are outlined in a mentoring agreement which all participants should sign.
• Resources and training including a Mentee Preparation Workshop are provided to support you throughout the program.   

When matching you with a mentor we will take into consideration:

Whether your preferences match with available mentors

Your motivations for participating in the program

Your level of commitment to the program

Your current year level - students in their final year are given first preference

Whether you have already participated in the program    

We endeavour to match as many students as possible to available mentors, however we cannot guarantee all students who apply for the program will be matched. We make every effort to find a match that meets your preferences as closely as possible.

Eligibility 

Participation in this program is by invitation only. Students who meet the eligibility criteria will be contacted via email with application information. You may be eligible for the Access Connections Mentoring Program if you:

• Have been granted entry to the University via the Access Melbourne Entry Scheme
• Are completing the second year or above of their undergraduate degree
• Are an undergraduate student who is currently seeking asylum in Australia
• Are enrolled in any of our undergraduate degrees and associated majors
• Applied and were selected by the program coordinator (this is not a compulsory program, nor are students guaranteed a mentor)
• Have demonstrated your commitment to the program and completed the online application by the due date.        
   

 Key dates

Monday 17 March	Applications open.
Thursday 3 April	Career Mentoring Information Session
Friday 9 May	Applications close
Week commencing Monday 14 July	Application outcomes and partnerships announced
Week commencing Monday 21 July	Mentee Preparation Workshop
July- November	Regular (at least 3 times) meetings with your mentor. Mentoring resources and support will be provided throughout the partnership to ensure mentoring goals can be achieved
Late November	Program ends

Preparing for Mentoring LMS module

In preparation for the program, all students should complete the Preparing for Mentoring module on the LMS. During this module, you’ll learn how to begin a mentoring relationship, manage meetings and activities and make the most of your mentoring opportunity. This module takes approx. 15-20 minutes to complete and contains a short quiz. 

Career Mentoring Information Session

Eligible students will be invited by email to attend an information session on Thursday 3 April. The session will provide a full understanding of the program, and feature a panel of previous mentors and mentees who'll share their experience and the many benefits of career mentoring. If you're unsure if you're eligible, contact the Program Officer by emailing access-connections@unimelb.edu.au.

 More information