The University invited alumni to a networking event where they learned more about how to mentor existing students.
The event, which was opened on Wednesday 26 October by Professor April McMahon, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, is part of the University’s annual Employability Festival.
Alumni mentors are an invaluable resource for students and recent graduates; sharing their expertise and advice and offering opportunities for them to develop skills and networks. A study shows that students who participated in a mentoring scheme were 10-12% more likely to get a graduate-level position than those who didn’t.
Mentors have helped students with advice about CVs and letter writing, and have taken part because they actively want to link students with the world of work outside their university experience which can be all-consuming.
Hosted by the Development Office, the alumni/student networking event took place on 26 October in the Woolf College Lecture Theatre on the Canterbury campus.
The event is to thank those who have already helped support students, to welcome new and potential mentors, and help students find a mentor face-to-face. Attendees will share best practice and network with fellow alumni, students and friends, and learn more about the University’s e-mentoring platform, the Kent Experiences of Work Network (KEW-NET), which recently reached over 1,100 members.
The event is free and light refreshments will be provided.