This article was written by Nam, our Semester 2, 2024 social media intern.
As an international student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Analytics, majoring in Finance at La Trobe University, I know firsthand the challenges that come with navigating university life and preparing for a future career.
Like many students, I’ve grappled with questions like how to build the perfect resume, gain essential technical skills, and accumulate professional experience. These worries can feel overwhelming, but I found a transformative solution: industry mentorship.
Industry mentorship has been my guiding light through these challenges, offering support and insights from someone who has already walked the path I’m striving to follow. It has become my ultimate tool for overcoming obstacles, boosting my confidence and making informed decisions about my career.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Mentorship Experience
Every mentorship experience is different, but the value you gain depends heavily on how you approach it. In my case, being open and transparent with my mentor from the beginning made all the difference. I clearly communicated my academic background, technical skills, and career goals upfront. This allowed my mentor to tailor their guidance specifically to my needs and aspirations.
Taking initiative also played a key role. When I felt that our online meetings weren’t enough, I reached out to request an in-person meeting. This small step significantly enhanced my experience, allowing me to build a stronger connection with my mentor and have more meaningful discussions. By being proactive and engaged, I was able to maximize the mentoring relationship and truly benefit from the insights offered.
The Real Benefits of Mentoring
As a participant in La Trobe’s Industry Mentoring Program, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to meet with my mentor, Mr. Edward Bailey, every Thursday afternoon.
Our conversations cover a wide range of topics, from the daily responsibilities of a Senior Data Analyst to practical tips on perfecting my resume and refining my interview skills. These discussions have been eye-opening and invaluable, offering insights I would never have gained in the classroom.
My mentor’s dedication to my growth has been truly inspiring. His guidance has helped me see that I, too, can achieve similar levels of success. Surrounding myself with someone who challenges me to improve has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my future.
Ready to Take the First Step?
The next round of Industry Mentoring starts in November. If you’re ready to take charge of your career and learn from the best, visit the Career Ready Industry Mentoring webpage to learn more and register for the Summer Round of mentoring. This could be the game-changing experience you’ve been looking for!