Attention all non-finalist undergraduate, International Foundation Programme (IFP) and postgraduate students!

Use your experience as a student to make a difference – become a mentor with the STaR mentor programme – Open to Undergraduate, International Foundation Programme and Postgraduate students.

“There was very good training. The people leading the scheme helped create a friendly atmosphere where you felt like you could ask questions and seek help if you were stuck. Additionally, the weekly emails made me feel supported and connected to the scheme.” Student STaR mentor.

We are looking for students from every subject, so if you are in the first or second year (or other non-final year) and would like to make a difference to those around you, as well as improve your CV, keep reading and find out about the new STaR (Supporting Transitions at Reading) mentoring programme. 

As a STaR mentor you use your own experience, topped up with a bit of extra training, to give friendly informal tips to new students. You help new students settle onto their course, into their department or School, navigate the complexities of the University, and get involved in university life. You are not expected to be an expert or to take the place of a parent, a personal tutor or a professional counsellor, but simply to be the voice of someone who was in their position not so long ago and has survived. 

In addition, you will have the opportunity to take part in our Welcome activities and Student Life events that run throughout the year.  

People become mentors for many different reasons. Here are a few: 

• You will make someone’s start at university easier and less daunting 
• You will learn about people, what makes them who they are and how others see the world around them 
• You will learn more about yourself in the process 
• It is a great addition to your CV and it can count towards the RED Award 

For a better insight into what exactly a STaR mentor does check out the STaR webpages on Essentials and watch our short information film  

Apply to be a UG or IFP STaR mentor  

Apply to be a STaR PG International mentor  

Mentoring is one of those simple things that can have a powerful effect on someone’s life. A few words of experience can really make the world of difference.  Sign up to be a STaR mentor and be part of something that will make that difference for hundreds of students in Autumn 2022. 

Check out Essentials for more info on the programme, or if this  doesn’t answer your question email starmentors@reading.ac.uk