STEM Industry Mentoring Program

FAQs for Mentors

Have your mentoring questions answered here or contact us for any further assistance.

• What might I expect to gain from joining the mentoring program?
  • Contribute to the development of the next generation of science, engineering and information technology professionals
  • Develop a fresh perspective on your career
  • Extend your professional network
  • Help to shape the future of your profession and community
  • Connect with the next generation of graduates
  • Reconnect or develop closer links with the University of Melbourne, ranked #1 in Australia
• When does the program run?

  May:  Applications for the program open

  June: Matching Process

  Early - July: Students and alumni will be notified about the outcome of their application and introduced to their partners via email.

  Mid - July: Preparation events will be held for matched mentors and mentees

  July - November: Students are encouraged to organise meetings with their mentors. These can take place in person or online.

• What are the expectations of a mentor?

  As a mentor you are expected to support and guide your mentee in ways that are appropriate for their field. Meetings with your student might include:

  • Providing a sounding board regarding career planning and development
  • Discussing the benefits of extracurricular opportunities
  • Introducing your student to colleagues and professional network
  • Work shadowing if appropriate (observing)
• What are the attributes of a good mentor?

  A mentor is someone who is:

  • Willing and eager to listen
  • Enthusiastic, yet honest
  • Open to learning and self-reflection
  • Happy to share experiences, both positive and negative
  • Supports and listens rather than coaching or lecturing
• What are the eligibility requirements?

  To join the STEM Mentoring program as a mentor you must:

  • Have a minimum of one year of professional work experience.
  • Not be currently employed by the University of Melbourne in any role that influences the academic outcomes of students.
  • Not be in any position or situation that may be deemed to cause a conflict of interest affecting the results of this program.
• What is the time commitment?

  Mentors and students are expected to meet at least 3 times between July and end of November. The exact nature and frequency of these meetings can be determined between the mentor and student and may include informal meetings over coffee, attending a public lecture together, and much more.

• How will I be matched with a student? 

  We will match you with a student based on commonality in your applications. Best efforts will be made to fulfil your preferences but not all preferences can be guaranteed.

• Can I choose a student?

  No, we will match you with a student taking into consideration the preferences and interests you have provided on your application form. Best efforts will be made to fulfil your preferences but not all preferences can be guaranteed.

• Where will I meet my student?

  The scheduling of mentor/student meetings is the responsibility of the student and needs to be scheduled at a location and time suitable for both parties. However, it is preferable that students work around the mentor’s schedule. Please note, there is no requirement for mentors to meet students on campus.

• If my application is unsuccessful, can I apply to be a mentor in subsequent years?

  Yes. Places in this program are restricted to those that are eligible to apply, and to those that are compatible with the available students. Unfortunately, not all applications will be successful. We are happy to discuss your suitability for the program with you in person.

• Where can I get more information?

  For further information, please contact the team at  stem-mentoring@unimelb.edu.au