Arts Peer Mentoring Program FAQs

Who can join the Arts Peer Mentoring program?

Any first year BA student can join the program. You can be in semester one or two.

Does the program cost anything?

There are no costs to join the program. Activities undertaken in your mentee group (eg: a coffee at a local café) are at your expense. However, if cost is prohibitive to participating in activities, please let your mentor know.

Is the Arts Peer Mentoring Program the same as Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)?

No, the two programs are different, although both are coordinated by the Arts Student Programs team. PASS stands for Peer Assisted Study Sessions, and is based around providing peer support for students in specific subjects. The Arts Peer Mentoring program is different in that it is not primarily academic in its focus. Rather it is a holistic mentoring program designed to help you adjust to university, and life in Melbourne, Australia.

Who will be my mentor?

You will be allocated two mentors, who have been trained for their role. Both will be later year BA students, or will have completed a BA, and be enrolled in a Graduate course.

Will I be with other students or meet one-on-one?

You will be part of a group of up to 12 mentees. Most scheduled meetings will be with this group, but you may talk with your mentors about arranging individual meetings. However, the program is designed to primarily promote group meetings and interactions.

When will I hear from my mentor?

You will be contacted by your mentor during the first week of semester (Begins February 29). They will send you an email, so please ensure you check your student emails regularly. You may also receive an SMS from them.

When will the program start?

Your first meeting will occur from week 2 of the semester onwards. The times and places of these meetings will be arranged in collaboration with your mentors and the other mentees in the group. They will be designed to suit the timetables of the majority of group members.

What happens when I meet with my mentor?

Meetings will be scheduled for approximately one hour. During this time you may participate in activities such as: visiting a café; taking a tour of the campus or library; participating in a campus lunchtime activity; or visiting local places of interest. The places visited and content of meetings will vary depending on the group needs and interests. It is a good idea to speak with your mentors if you have an idea for a meeting.

Can my mentor assist me with course advice including information about choosing subjects and majors?

The primary role of an Arts Peer Mentor is to assist you to adjust to university life, and to Melbourne, Australia. Your mentor may share their experience of their own student journey. However, they are not University staff, and are therefore not employed or trained to offer you course advice. For this information, please contact Stop 1, or ask a question through the Welcome to Arts at Melbourne Facebook page. Please 'Like' this page to receive regular information and updates relating to your course and Faculty.

What if I want to change mentee groups?

You are welcome to change mentee groups. It is preferable that you let your mentors know, and/or the program coordinator.

What if I want to withdraw from the program?

You are welcome to withdraw from the program at any time. It is preferable that you let your mentors know, and/or the program coordinator.

How long does the program run for?

You will meet with your group for approximately seven weeks. Most formal group meetings finish in week 8 of the semester. Due to the friendship-building nature of the program, some mentors and mentees arrange to keep meeting informally.

What do I do if I haven't heard from my mentor?

Mentors are very diligent in contacting mentees. If you provide accurate contact details, and regularly check your emails, you should have no difficulty connecting with your mentor.

What do I do if I have other questions about Arts Peer Mentoring?

If you have any further questions, come along to one of our orientation information sessions, or our orientation welcome afternoon tea.