How to Apply

The Matched Mentoring programme runs twice a year, usually in October and February. The Alumni Office will inform students and recent graduates when applications are open.

***Form open until 21st February 2025***

Alumni or students who wish to apply for Matched Mentoring should complete the Mentee Application Form. Please note that we cannot guarantee that everyone will be matched.

Remember that Matched Mentoring is for those willing to enter into a long-term mentoring relationship (6 months or more). If you're looking for something quicker and less structured please take a look at Ask-An-Alum, our online tool for those who want quick advice and information from the alumni network. 

The forms asks:

a) What kind of support do you hope to get from a mentor? Consider your personal learning and career goals, areas to work on, and potential barriers you may face;

b) Who is your ideal mentor? Are there any specific areas of demographic, cultural or organisational fit that are important to you?

Tips for a Great Application

1. Think about makes a successful mentoring relationship

The Mentee drives the mentoring relationship towards their personal goals. This could be in terms of guidance with managing professional relationships, gaining sector knowledge, or insights into sourcing work opportunities. Considering your personal goals will allow you to make the most out of mentoring. Mentors have volunteered their time to support their Mentee alonside their regular job, so it's important to utilise their time (and yours) most effectively. 

Consider what makes an effective mentee and how this can be transferred to this programme. Be mindful of different perspectives in a mentoring relationship.

Examples of characteristics of an effective Mentee:

• Honest
• Proactive
• Willing to learn
• Focussed on personal development
• Comfortable being challenged
• Flexible and open-minded 
• Willing to move out of their 'comfort zone'
• Confidence to ask for advice and share concerns
• Professionalism
• Reflects on experience

Examples of characteristics of an effective Mentor:

• Supportive
• Encouraging 
• Motivating 
• Empowering
• Knowledgeable
• Active listener
• Good communicator
• Offers advice
• Challenges the mentee

A successful mentoring relationship is a two-way process. Mentors will share their knowledge and experiences. However, mentees cannot expect their Mentor to have all the answers. As the driving force, it is up to mentees to ask effective questions that respond to their individual learning goals. 

To develop a successful mentoring partnership, the relationship needs key attributes from both the mentor and mentee:

• Trust and respect
• Commitment
• Ongoing and effective communication

2. Identify your skills, goals, and areas of support

Mentees should have an idea on what they are seeking from mentoring. This does not have to be a definitive plan! It is just an indication of the types of skills you hope to use in your career. Some examples of questions to work on with your mentor include:

• How can I make the most of work experience on my CV?
• How can I find and approach potential employers in my desired field?
• How can I build the confidence to start networking?
• How can I decide what sort of work I want to do?

It is good to come prepared with your learning and career goals. This allows Mentors to better support their Mentee, and for both to make the most out of the mentoring relationship. The more specific you are, the better a Mentor can support you.

Possible areas of support from a mentor are:

• Industry / sector knowledge
• Enhancing skills and behaviours for recruitment processes
• Building professional relationships
• Career choice and direction
• Goal setting 

3. Ask yourself why

We are seeking students and alumni who are committed to making the most out of Matched Mentoring.  Consider how you intend to use mentoring experience for your learning and professional development. Mentoring is a long-term process, which involves reflection, listening, and taking on practical advice. Reflect on what you wish to gain from mentoring. We ask you to provide as much detail as possible in your application, to ensure the most suitable match.

4. Check it again

Make sure you check your application thoroughly; make sure it reads well, and that your answers are detailed. Check grammar and spelling to ensure you are creating a positive impression and demonstrate attention to detail.

Additional support for your application

The Alumni Relations Office are happy to provide additional support for your application. Please contact us at alumni@ids.ac.uk.

Other useful links

Discover Matched Mentoring

What is mentoring?

Application form