Peer-to-peer support is key in adapting to life at university
The Peer Mentoring Scheme aims to help new students transition smoothly into the University of Hertfordshire by providing peer-to-peer support. Starting university can be daunting for most undergraduate students - and this is where peer mentoring can help. Herts mentoring Herts!
Each first-year student from Hertfordshire Law School and the School of Creative Arts will be assigned a Peer Mentor at the start of their degree. These Peer Mentors, who are in their 2nd or 3rd/final year of the same course will offer tips and guidance about university life and information regarding the local Hatfield area.
What is a Peer Mentor?
Peer Mentors support new students in their department by sharing their first-year experiences, answering questions, and helping Peer Mentees access support services. They maintain contact with Peer Mentees throughout the year via messages or informal meet-ups. Full details of the role can be found here.
What to expect as a Peer Mentee
We understand that you might have lots of questions that you would prefer to ask a friendly experienced student rather than a staff member. That’s what a Peer Mentor can provide!
Some typical questions Peer Mentors can answer:
- • I’m feeling overwhelmed, what do I do?
- • Where are my lectures?
- • Where’s the LRC??
- • What’s a module and how do I access Canvas or StudyNet?
- • I’m not sure that I picked the right course, what should I do?
- • How do I get more involved in student life?
Peer Mentors are there to help you with these queries. No issue is too small, and they understand what it's like to be in the first year with doubts and questions.
FAQs for Peer Mentors
Who are my Peer Mentees?
You will be notified of your Peer Mentees before the scheme begins in September. If unsure, email peermentoring@hertssu.com.
Do I need good grades to be able to apply?
We believe everyone’s experience is valuable: regardless of your grades, you can have a positive impact on another student.
Can I be a Peer Mentor after graduation?
Peer Mentors must be full-time students at the University of Hertfordshire, generally in their 2nd, 3rd or final year.
What if the role isn't what I expected?
If unsure about continuing as a Peer Mentor, contact peermentoring@hertssu.com to discuss your concerns. We aim to help you to get the most out of the scheme. However, if necessary, you can choose to step down from the role of Peer Mentor.
How do I maintain confidentiality, record-keeping and data protection?
You would be provided with appropriate training, but it's important you understand that the mentoring relationship will remain confidential. A Peer Mentor is trusted and is expected to treat student concerns and private matters with the utmost sensitivity.
Can I add my Peer Mentees on social media?
It is up to you and your Peer Mentees to give consent to sharing contact details. We believe it would be the best approach and will be happy for you to reach out to your Peer Mentees on social media, although, we recommend that Peer Mentors use Teams to contact their Peer Mentees.
FAQs for Peer Mentees
How do I know who my Peer Mentor is?
Your Peer Mentor will introduce themselves via email. If you haven’t heard from them or wish to change your mentor, contact the Peer Mentoring team at peermentoring@hertssu.com.
What can my Peer Mentor do for me?
They can offer advice, share experiences, introduce you to university services, and encourage involvement in university life. Peer Mentors cannot provide academic or mental health support but can direct you to the right services.
What do I do if my Peer Mentor sends me incorrect information regarding our course?
Notify your Peer Mentor so that they can find the correct information and share this with the rest of their Peer Mentees.
What support can I go to my Peer Mentor for?
Your Peer Mentor is there to provide guidance and signposting when you need it. They should be someone you can trust to direct you to a useful service or answer any general questions you have about the University or Students' Union.
What do I do if my Peer Mentor has not emailed me to begin with or has not responded to my email?
If you are unable to get in touch with your Peer Mentor, or find yourself requiring further support, please email peermentoring@hertssu.com.
Code of Conduct
You can download the Code of Conduct here
If you have any queries about the Peer Mentoring Scheme, please reach out to our Peer Mentoring team here.