Degree Mentoring Programme

What is the Step-Up Mentoring Programme?

Step-Up students who progress to the University of Ulster are assigned a final year undergraduate or postgraduate mentor to provide academic guidance and pastoral support throughout the first year of study. Regular meetings between students and their mentors offer an opportunity for the discussion of issues that may arise during the transition from school to university.

Who are Step-Up Mentors?

Mentors are assigned on the basis that they are enrolled on or have already completed the same degree course as the student. Therefore, they are well placed to provide 'insider knowledge' on how to achieve good marks in assessments and achieve a successful life/work balance.

Why meet with a Step-Up Mentor?

It is highly recommended that all students attend meetings with their mentor and try to be as honest and open at meetings as possible. This allows any problems or issues to be identified at an early stage. Step-Up mentors will endeavour to provide as much help and assistance as possible. Where appropriate, mentors may refer students to other university staff members or departments, although all issues will be treated confidentially.

In our experience students who make use of their mentors are more successful at University and complete year one without examination resits. Students who do not use their mentor find the transition to University more difficult; often having to re-sit examinations which can result in failure to complete their course.

Scholarships

Students that have advanced through the Step-Up programme have the opportunity to apply for a range of scholarships, worth £1000 each, which assist with the costs associated with progression to Higher Education.

Students studying at the University of Ulster can only obtain a Scholarship application form from their mentor (application forms will be posted to students studying at other Higher Education Institutions). Mentors can also provide advice on how to complete the application.

Benefits of Mentoring

There are many benefits associated with having a mentor including:

Regular support and guidance during the first year of academic study which includes:

— Constructive feedback on assignments
— Tips and techniques for passing university examinations
— Support through the appeals system if you have difficulty with your course

Advice and guidance in applying for scholarships

For more information on the Step-Up Mentoring Programme, please click the image below or the following link, to download the booklet: Step-Up Mentoring Programme booklet.