In the Department of Psychology, pairs of second year peer mentors support a group of first year students with the transition to life and study at Bath. Hanne talks about her experiences of being a peer mentor this year.

“It was a lot of fun to work together with Katie, and to actually see the freshers feel more and more at home.”

- Hanne Arts, MSci (hons) Psychology

What made you decide to get involved with the mentoring scheme?

My experience with my peer mentors was a bit unsatisfactory. I felt that new students could get so much more out of the scheme with a bit more effort from mentors. I decided to get involved to do just that.

What has been the most positive aspect of being a peer mentor?

It was a lot of fun to work together with Katie, and to actually see the freshers feel more and more at home.

What has surprised you about the scheme/ something you were not anticipating?

How fast students feel at home! At first they come with questions, etc. but very soon it seems as if they no longer feel this is necessary.

How will being a peer mentor help you for the future?

Mainly organisation and time management. During my busiest times, I anticipated that my mentees, too, may have more work demands and tried to schedule in a possible catch up with them if needed.

If you had to sum up being a peer mentor in three words, what would they be?

Fun, educational & rewarding.

If you are interested in becoming a peer mentor, you can sign up to your department-specific training session.