Mentoring Toolkit

This site is for mentors and other professionals who participate in intercultural relationships that aim to support international students and Mastercard scholars.

This Mentoring Toolkit consists of information, tools, practical advice and resources intended to assist mentors who support international students during their time of studying abroad.

The sections presented here reflect key issues identified by mentors who work with African international students in the University of Edinburgh and the University of British Columbia, regarding their role, but also the power dynamics that encompass intercultural relationships and working with minority students.

Alongside the Mentoring Toolkit, we suggest the use of the Transitions Toolkit for a deeper understanding of the challenges and experiences African International students face during their time abroad. 

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a valuable experience both for the mentor and mentee.  The relationship can foster growth for both, and can support the mentee to both succeed and thrive in their education.

Mentoring benefits all types of students, but it is well-documented that meaningful mentoring can make a massive positive difference for women and underrepresented minorities in primarily white institutions. 

Generic mentoring skills can help mentors of different backgrounds connect meaningfully with underrepresented students; however there are some extra considerations that should be taken into account to create authentic and supportive relationships. 

This mentoring toolkit will introduce general skills as well as considerations a mentor must have when mentoring interculturally.

 

Practical suggestions for the Mentor's role and responsibilities in the context for mentoring African International Students.

Mentoring has developed over the last decades to reflect more appropriately the types of students and professionals being mentored.

An overview of strategies and techniques to aid the mentoring role.

Case stories to help mentors and other staff working with African international students reflect on their practice.