What is Mentorship?

WHAT IS MENTORING

Mentoring is designed to support student academic success. It cultivates a sense of community and peer support where mentees experience a sense of belonging and connectedness to the world around them.  Through personalised relationships peers support each other to take action towards their goals. These powerful relationships are built on commitment and shared responsibilities. It is premised on the confidence that a structured mentor-mentee relationship is able to create positive influence (Burak, 2002). The aim of building communities of Wits mentors is to create a supportive environment that motivates and assists students to maximize their personal and academic potential. A Peer Mentorship Programme provides a framework for positive interaction between students, mentors and campus staff members.

5 AIMS of MENTORING

1. Support academic success and throughput.
2. Support and guide students through their transition and adjustment to university life.
3. Create living and learning communities where students engage with each other through interactive one-on-one or group sessions.
4. Familiarize and connect new students to university systems, procedures and support resources.
5. Enhance wellness, interpersonal relationships, peer learning and resilience.

WHO IS A MENTOR? 

A mentor is a senior student (from second year of study and above) who has knowledge of campus resources, good academic results, is helpful, caring and willing to offer their time to support a junior student (mentee). Peer mentors are not tutors, counsellors or advisers, but they can guide students to these appropriate resources on campus. Mentors provide information, support and guidance to new students (mentees) while they work toward achieving their university goals.

BENEFITS OF BEING MENTORED

• Builds student confidence and helps in the adjustment to university life.
• Provides one on one support and guidance to students.
• Assists students to clarify and prioritize study goals.
• Empowers students to form new networks and create a meaningful, learning experience.

 BENEFITS OF BEING A MENTOR

• It’s an opportunity to develop your mentoring, leadership and interpersonal skills.
• It’s enhances your personal portfolio, which will serve as a great marketing tool to prospective employers.
• It’s an opportunity to become more aware of yourself and to gain a sense of fulfilment in serving and helping others.
• It create new friendships and increases your networks, adding to a more meaningful university experience. 

For more information contact us on info.ccdu@wits.ac.za  or 011 717 9140