Academic Mentoring

Share goals, ask questions, receive guidance and get the most out of your time at uni.
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What is Academic Mentoring?

Academic Mentoring helps you connect with a supportive mentor through regular one-on-one meetings. It’s not meant to be formal and there are no right or wrong answers. It’s all about helping you build your university networks and providing practical strategies to support your learning and success.


A connection you can only get at UniMelb.

As you progress through your degree, your Academic Mentor will become a familiar face on campus. Mentoring is not just about imparting knowledge. It’s about creating an environment where both you and your mentor can learn, reflect, and develop together.

What it is

A 30-minute meeting with an Academic Mentor where you can:

  • Develop essential networking skills, such as effective communication and relationship-building
  • Develop work-ready soft skills, such as time management and problem-solving
  • Talk through ideas and opportunities that can help you grow and reach your goals
  • Gain new perspectives, develop critical thinking
  • Gain practical advice to navigate complex academic environments.

What it isn't

  • An academic progress check
  • A counselling and psychological service
  • A wellbeing service
  • A career and employability consultation
  • Course/Subject advice

How to prepare

Need a bit of inspiration? Check out this Student Guide, created for students by students, which includes helpful tips for an effective mentoring meeting.

We've also come up with some questions and conversation starters to help you prepare, but feel free to come up with your own.

Your mentor might ask:

  • How's your semester going?
  • What are your passions and interests?
  • Have you joined any student clubs or societies?
  • Do you have any specific goals this semester?
  • How do you go about achieving these goals?
  • How are you feeling about uni life overall? Are you where you want to be?

You might want to ask:

  • I'm finding my study _______ (enjoyable / challenging / inspiring). Do you have any suggestions for how I could engage more?
  • My interests are _______. How can I incorporate this into my studies?
  • I've been thinking about what's next, but I'm not sure if I should do _______ or _______. Can I talk my decision through with you?
  • I'm not sure if I should do an internship / placement, do you have any insights?

What students are saying


Mashal, Bachelor of Arts


Annie, Bachelor of Science

How to talk to your Academic Mentor

Building professional conversation skills is valuable for your career, and informal practice makes it easier.

Before meeting, consider rehearsing key discussion points. Using notes helps focus the conversation and respects your mentor's time. Check out this video of Gurshan and Jamie for conversation ideas and tips.