The International Mentoring Program kicked off its first semester with remarkable energy and dedication, setting astrong foundation for mentoring relationships and creating a supportive community for international students. With a variety of events, workshops, and lectures, theprogram has equipped both mentors with the tools they need to navigate academic challenges, cultural differences, and personal growth. Here is a detailed look at the milestones achieved during this productive semester.
Psychological support and the recognition of alarm symptoms
One of the key highlights was the lecture on “Psychological support and the recognition of alarm symptoms.” by Prof. Dr. György Purebl. This session provided invaluable insights into understanding mental health challenges and recognizing early warning signs in both mentees and mentors. Participants learned about effective ways to provide psychological support, fostering an environment of empathy and openness. The lecture emphasized the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of academic success and personal development.
Training Mentors to help with confidence
A series of mentor-specific training sessions were conducted to prepare participants for their roles. These trainings focused on essential mentoring skills, including how to build trust, communicate effectively, and handle difficult situations. Mentors were introduced to techniques for fostering meaningful connections with their mentees while maintaining professional boundaries. These sessions empowered mentors to approach their responsibilities with confidence and provided them with practical tools to navigate complex mentoring dynamics.
Workshops on key skills: Stress management, Communication for behavior change, Motivational interview
The program featured workshops on critical skills that benefit both mentors and mentees alike. Stress management was a central theme, equipping students with tools to cope with academic pressure and maintain balance during demanding times. The workshop on communication for behavior change provided participants with strategies to effectively inspire and guide positive changes in others, an essential skill for mentors. Additionally, the motivational interview workshop introduced techniques to engage mentees in meaningful conversations, helping them overcome barriers and stay focused on their goals.
Supervision sessions: Enhancing mentor-mentee relations
Supervision sessions proved to be a cornerstone of the program’s success. These sessions offered a platform for mentors to discuss their experiences, challenges, and successes with program supervisors. Topics included navigating mentor-mentee relationships, addressing difficult questions, and brainstorming solutions for possible scenarios. The collaborative nature of these sessions allowed mentors to learn from each other’s exper
iences and refine their approaches.
Task Force Events: Sharing experiences and insights
The task force events organized by the senior mentors added another layer of support to the program. These events were designed to provide practical advice based on the senior mentors’ personal experiences. Topics ranged from academic challenges to everyday issues faced by international students. Each presentation was tailored to ease the transition into university life and provide actionable tips for overcoming common obstacles.
This semester of the International Mentoring Program has been a testament to the power of collaboration and support. From equipping mentors with the skills they need to offering mentees a safe and welcoming space, the program has achieved its mission of fostering growth and resilience. With the foundation laid this semester, the program is poised for even greater success in the months to come.