How are mentors selected to be connected?
Based on the profile you will create, which will include your course area, career aspirations and key interests, the mentoring team will connect you with a mentor who aligns closely with you.
How long is the mentoring program?
Mentoring partnerships run for 12 weeks. The number of meetings you have is negotiated with your mentor and is flexible, but a minimum of 3–4 meetings are required. Mentors and mentees can negotiate to meet more frequently, and contact can occur via email, video conferencing, or telephone.
Can I have more than one mentor?
La Trobe students are able to participate in one mentoring round during their studies*. Further correspondence with your mentor after the conclusion of the round may be negotiated privately between you and your mentor.
*In some cases, a second round may be possible, to discuss your options contact the mentoring team via email mentoring@latrobe.edu.au
When can I register?
We accept applications all year. Once you register, you will be considered for the next round of mentoring.
Will I be matched in the upcoming Mentoring Round?
We endeavour to recruit mentees and mentors into the program in equal measures to maximise appropriate matches for each mentoring round. Please note that in some instances we may have a surplus of either students or mentors and they will not receive a match in that round. In this scenario, preference will be given to these participants in the next mentoring round.
What if I have concerns about an aspect of my mentoring partnership?
If you feel comfortable, we encourage you to discuss any areas of concern regarding the mentoring partnership with your Mentor first. If you are unable to resolve this between you and your Mentor, then you can seek support and advice from the mentoring team via email mentoring@latrobe.edu.au
What resources can I access for mentoring?
Upon registration, you will get access to the mentoring platform, including the available resources, such as goal setting support, tips on communicating, networking and activities for mentees and mentors for you to get the best from your mentoring partnership. The mentoring team will also engage with you via email to provide further resources, seek feedback and invite you to career related professional development opportunities.
Where should mentoring take place?
This should be discussed and agreed upon between the mentor and student. Since many of our mentors are busy professionals working full time, we expect mentees to be as flexible as possible. In-person mentoring meetings are often held in convenient locations, such as coffee shops near the mentor's workplace. If meeting in person is not feasible, meetings can be held online or via phone.
* Mentoring meetings should not take place in a residential home or any workplace where the key clientele are minors.
Do I get academic credit points for participating in the Career Ready Mentoring program?
Students participate in the Industry Mentoring program voluntarily to take advantage of the support and guidance offered by experienced industry professionals. Whilst students do not receive academic credit points for participation, the program does contribute towards the Career Ready Advantage Award, as a Practical Experience, which can appear on your transcript.
What is small group mentoring, and how does it work?
Small group mentoring pairs up to 2-3 students with one industry mentor. It’s designed to create a more collaborative environment where students can learn from the mentor and each other. Depending on the group’s preference, sessions can be held as group meetings, 1:1 discussions, or a combination of both. Group mentoring may be introduced if needed, and some students may find it a more comfortable and engaging way to connect, benefiting from diverse perspectives and shared experiences.
What topics are in and out of scope for mentoring sessions?
Your mentor is here to support your employability goals and professional development. They can help you explore career pathway options, understand industry trends, gain insights into the job market, and learn about the day-to-day aspects of their profession. Discussions may also focus on important skills for professional growth, setting career goals, shaping career direction, job search and application advice, dealing with workplace challenges, networking opportunities, interview techniques, and even job shadowing. We encourage you to discuss these options with your mentor to tailor your experience. However, certain topics are out of scope. Mentors cannot assist with requests for jobs or internships, provide legal advice on visa or immigration issues, or address personal matters unrelated to career development.
How will I be matched with a student?
Based on the profile you create, mentoring staff will match you according to close alignment of education and qualifications, career aspiration and other interests.
When can I apply?
We accept mentor applications year-round. Once you register, you will be considered for the next round of mentoring.
What am I expected to do?
In this program, the mentee is tasked with driving the relationship forward by setting specific learning goals and tasks. Your role is to be available to them during the program period to share your experience, knowledge, and perspective on their chosen areas of development, future profession and industry.
What is the time commitment for the program?
Mentoring partnerships run for 12 weeks. The structure of meetings you have (frequency, method etc.) is negotiated with your mentee and is flexible to suit you both, however a minimum of 3-4 meetings across the 12 weeks is required.
Will I be matched in the upcoming Mentoring Round?
We endeavour to recruit mentees and mentors into the program in equal measures to maximise appropriate matches for each mentoring round. Please note that in some instances we may have a surplus of either students or mentors and they will not receive a match in that round. In this scenario, preference will be given to these participants in the next mentoring round.
Before each round begins, an RSVP request is sent to all mentors. Only those who confirm their availability will be included in the matching process.
Who are the students?
The program is open to all La Trobe students aged 18 and over. To participate, students must first create a profile on the mentoring platform. After completing their profile, students are required to attend a briefing session. Once these steps are completed, they will be considered for matching in the next round.
Where should the mentoring take place?
The location of mentoring sessions should be mutually agreed upon between you and your mentee. Students are encouraged to be as flexible as possible and are willing to travel to a location that is convenient for you. Common meeting spots include workplaces or nearby coffee shops. If meeting in person is not feasible, meetings can be conducted online or via phone.
* Mentoring meetings should not take place in a residential home or any workplace where the key clientele are minors.
What if my mentee is experiencing a stressful time?
Academic and professional life can be very stressful for some students. Mentors, however, are not intended to serve as mental health professionals, legal professionals, or parents. The university can provide various resources that can assist with personal issues and difficult times. If at any time the mentoring relationship is extending beyond what you are comfortable with, please feel free to contact the Mentoring Program Coordinator via mentoring@latrobe.edu.au who will refer your mentee to the appropriate support services.
What is the small group mentoring option, and how will it affect my mentoring sessions?
Small group mentoring involves pairing you with up to 2-3 students. The structure of the meetings is flexible and can be tailored to what works best for your group—whether through group sessions, 1:1 mentoring, or a mix of both. Some students may feel more comfortable in a group setting, which can lead to more dynamic discussions and shared learning experiences. Group mentoring is only introduced if necessary, and only for mentors who have indicated they are open to this option on their mentor profile.
What should I focus on during mentoring sessions, and what is considered out of scope?
As a mentor, your role is to guide students in achieving their employability goals. Common goals include discussing career pathways, industry trends, the job market, key skills for professional growth, and giving insights into a 'day in the life' of your role. Students are encouraged to come prepared with questions and goals related to these areas. However, it’s also important to remember that students may not know what they don’t know—this is a great opportunity for you to share what you wish you knew when starting out or what you believe would be valuable for someone new to the industry.
Certain topics are outside the scope of mentoring. You are not expected to provide job offers, internships, or legal advice regarding visa or immigration matters. The focus should remain on career development and professional growth.