Mentoring programs

The Making Connections program connects Macquarie University students from refugee backgrounds to supportive academic mentors to empower students to navigate the complexities of university life. The initiative was developed by the Academics for Refugees Network at Macquarie University, in collaboration with the Widening Participation Unit through funding by a LEAP Partnership Engagement Grant.

Since the start of the program, we have linked more than 40 students with an academic mentor from their faculty. We have also worked with more than 40 academic and professional staff members at Macquarie University, either as mentors or steering committee members.

How it works

The program goes beyond a quick match and a short-term relationship. It involves training mentors and mentees, clear boundaries, a code of conduct, careful linking, feedback and ongoing support of both mentors and mentees.

Currently, mentoring matches meet monthly for one hour. Mentors and mentees give feedback through regular ‘debriefs’ where mentors and mentees separately meet as a group with the coordinators.

Outcomes

Our initial evaluation showed outstanding results – both practical (eg paid internships with industry) and intangible (eg increased belonging at university).

In 2019, the program was presented at the Refugee Alternatives Conference in Adelaide. Our training and other materials now support the development of similar schemes, including at Macquarie University and other higher education institutions in Australia.

Apply Now

If you are interested to be a mentee, please complete and submit our mentee application form. Applications close on Friday 11th March, 2022.

Contact us

For more information about the program, contact our team at makingconnections@mq.edu.au.

Waranara is a Dharug word that means ‘to seek’.

The Waranara mentoring program links Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students with an academic in their home faculty. The goal of the mentorship is to empower students, providing access to the tacit knowledge and strategies required to succeed in their studies and to expand their career opportunities.

How it works

Waranara often involves mutual learning, and fosters a stronger connecting between participating students and Macquarie.

Now in its third year, Waranara is collaboration between Macquarie University academics, Walanga Muru, the Learning Skills Unit's WriteWISE program and the Widening Participation Unit.

Contact us

For more information about the program, contact waranara.mentoring@mq.edu.au.