Doctoral Peer Mentoring Scheme
Find out more about the Doctoral peer mentoring networks for new researchers, run by the Doctoral College and the Students' Union.
What is peer mentoring?
As part of our commitment to supporting your transition into doctoral studies, we offer a peer mentoring network program that matches you with another doctoral researcher who has been at the University for six months or more. Your Peer Mentor will serve as a friendly and knowledgeable point of contact as you settle into your new academic environment. Peer Mentors will:
- share their own experiences of doctoral studies with you
- be a friendly point of contact for you
- give you tips of how to make the most of your doctorate
- signpost a range of activities, opportunities and support available to you (if you're new to the University)
- connect you with other new researchers
How do I get a peer mentor?
If you are a new doctoral researcher, studying on a PhD programme or DBA, then you will have access to a doctoral peer mentor network through the Doctoral College Peer Mentor Network scheme.
To be matched with a mentor, please register here.
Making contact with your Peer Mentor
Your Peer Mentor will contact you, by email, before you arrive at the University to arrange an initial meeting with you. You can meet with your Peer Mentor up to a month before you start, or once you start your programme. Meetings will either take place on MS Teams or in-person, depending on your own needs. In some cases you may meet as a group with other new researchers. During this initial meeting it is down to you and your Peer Mentor to establish how often you would like to meet.
Email us if you haven't heard from your Peer Mentor
Volunteer as a Peer Mentor
Once you have been on your doctoral programme for at least six months you are able to volunteer as a Peer Mentor. All Peer Mentors receive comprehensive training from the Students' Union and will have access to support along the way. The benefits of being a Peer Mentor include:
- a certificate from the Students' Union if you complete a year as a peer mentor
- add your certificate to your doctoral development plan as an item of training
- access to additional training opportunities via the SU
- joining a supporting group of mentors with regular catch-ups and activities
- giving something back to the University
- developing mentoring skills
- staying connected to other people
Chao Fang, Doctoral Peer Mentor 2016-2019
Contact us about peer mentoring
If you have any questions about the Doctoral Peer Mentoring scheme then please get in touch with us.