Hayes, Buddy Scheme Mentor 2024

Starting university can be compared to being dropped into yet another world - new routines, new responsibilities, and probably a new city or country. I became a mentor in the Buddy Scheme because I distinctly remember the overwhelming feeling of the first year, and I wanted to help others find their feet, just like others helped me.

I've been paired with first-year students from every imaginable background during my mentoring years. Some were confident but needed help finding their way around the university; others were quieter and in need of reassurance or just a friendly face to talk with. In addition to mentors and mentees, I helped first-year students with practical ideas on deadlines, finding societies that fit their interests, and the bizarre life of uni-from how to select electives to where to get the best coffee on campus. But beyond that, I listened. Usually, just knowing someone cared and checked in from time to time was enough.

The joy was much more than seeing somebody else helped; I learnt so much, too. I learnt to be a better person by being patient and flexible and gaining confidence in initiating dialogue. I learnt about supporting others while studying, which turned me into a better communicator, leader, and teammate. I established real friendships with my mentees, and our scheduled meetings for mentoring sometimes turned into spontaneous outings, study groups, or food tours around London.

To any fellow student considering getting into the Buddy Scheme, no matter which side you are mentoring or being mentored, I would very much encourage it. For the mentor, it will teach you skills that you can take beyond university, and for the mentee, you'll find someone who knows exactly what you are going through. The scheme creates a space for connecting, supporting, and growing each one involved. If you are hunting for an experience at QMUL that is meaningful and people-centered, this is it.

Hayes, Buddy Scheme Mentor & Volunteer