Mentor Frequently Asked Questions

Why become a MATES@UWS mentor?

As a mentor you’ll provide invaluable support to new students. You’ll help them settle in to university life, meet new people and build the confidence to succeed. It’s also a great opportunity to develop your leadership, communication and problem solving skills and expand your knowledge of UWS and the services on offer.

Being a ‘Mate’ also gives you the chance to meet other students, connect with UWS staff, attend MATES@UWS events, receive free goodies and treats and most importantly, have lots of fun along the way!

All ‘Mates’ receive an official certificate of recognition from UWS.

How much time does it take?

We ask mentors to commit one to two hours a week for the first 6 weeks of the teaching session. This time is usually split between a face-to-face meeting and one other form of communication each week – this might be email, phone calls or even SMS.

Past mentors have found these expectations reasonable and relatively easy to manage. 

How will I be matched to new students?

You will be asked to nominate a time that you’ll be on campus and available to meet with students each week. New students then assign themselves to a mentor through an online system. They may choose a mentor based on a number of things such as campus, similar availability, area of study or something else important to them, such as status as a mature-age student.

Are mentors paid?

No – mentors volunteer to participate in the MATES@UWS program and are not paid by UWS.

How much uni experience do I need to become a mentor?

If you’ve successfully completed at least one session of full time study at UWS (or the part time equivalent), you can be a mentor.

Find out more