Mentors wanted! Register now!
Student applications for mentors will open on 14 march 2012. Register to become a mentor.
About mentoring
Mentoring is a strategy for self-development, career development and skill development where an experienced professional offers knowledge, insight and resources to the mentee.
History of the Program
Commencing in 1994 with a pilot program involving fifty students, the Griffith Industry Mentoring Program has continued to expand and develop to the stage where it now involves some 200 students drawn from five University campuses matched annually with 200 mentors. The Griffith Industry Mentoring Program is nationally recognised for its contribution to student learning, career development and University-industry partnership (2008 Australian Learning and Teaching Council Citation).
Objectives of the Program
The goal of the Program is to assist students' transition from study to graduate work by facilitating in-depth understanding of potential employing organisations, work roles and workplaces relevant to their degrees. The Program also aims to expand the employer base for Griffith graduates by providing an avenue of involvement for Griffith alumni and people who have no previous association with the University.
How the Program operates
The Program is conducted during second semester (August to October), and links undergraduate students who have completed 80 credit points and postgraduate students in any year level with experienced professionals from similar career fields. Special features of the Program are two large networking functions: a breakfast launch and a concluding cocktail functions both held at locations in the CBD.
At the start of the Program, participants draw up a Mentoring Agreement, listing the activities they plan to undertake during the following three-months. Mentoring activities may include some or all of the following:
- Discussion of workplace/employment-related issues with their mentor
- Attendance at workplace or professional association meetings
- Professional networking
- Obtaining assistance with the development of an appropriate resume and effective interview skills
Students observe and monitor the quality of their learning throughout the Program by maintaining a reflective 'Mentoring Logbook' of their experiences. Post-Program evaluations provide feedback that is used to develop and improve later Programs. Separate Programs currently operate in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast.
Benefits of participating for mentors
- Personal satisfaction
- Exposure to graduates as potential employees
- The chance to reflect on their own work practices
- The opportunity to invest in the workforce of the future
- The chance to develop closer links with Griffith University
- Developing skills in coaching, mentoring and personal support
Time commitment expected from mentors
As a general rule, it is recommended that mentors and students meet for a minimum of six one-hour appointments (or equivalent) over the duration of the Program (August to October). Mentors are invited to attend a training workshop on mentoring prior to the Program commencing.
Work experience
Some students seek practical work experience as part of their involvement in the Program. We point out to all students that while work experience is one possible outcome, it should not be an expectation, and mentors may not necessarily be in a position to offer work experience. The key feature of the Program is the opportunity to interact with a workplace professional (the mentor) and other professionals (the mentor’s colleagues and contacts).
Register or update your details
Professionals who wish to register as mentors can do so at any time of the year. Existing mentors may also update their details.
Information brochure
Download an information brochure (PDF 216k) on the Industry Mentoring Program.
Interviews with Program Participants
Stream or download audio interviews: Program Mentors and Student Mentees discuss their experiences in their workplaces.
Further information
For further information regarding the Griffith Industry Mentoring Program, please contact:
Mary-Ellen Hempel on (07) 3735 3963
or
Delys Haskett on (07) 3735 3568
or email industrymentoringprogram@griffith.edu.au
You can register to become a mentor at any time.
