Peer Mentor Programme
The programme aims to provide assistance to new students (mentees) for adjustment and to cultivate peer support on campus. Each new student will be assigned a peer mentor from senior classes of the same faculty/course of study.
Being a Peer Mentor
Peer mentors are volunteers to provide assistance to a group of new students from early August to the end of October. You need to complete a series of training activities before starting your peer-mentoring.
What you will achieve …
1. Make friends with new students and enlarge you networks
2. Enhance some essential transferable skills, such as communication skills, problem solving skills and leadership skills
3. Make a difference in others’ lives by sharing your knowledge and experience, passing on tips to new students
What your responsibilities are …
1. Serve as group leaders and provide logistic support in the University Life Orientation Workshop
2. Follow up on the adjustment of your mentees
a. providing practical information about your faculty and the University activities and resources
b. directing students to resources and support services on campus
c. sharing your experiences in learning or participating in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities
d. being available to answer questions regarding orientation and adjustment
Tips for being a great mentor
1. Keep closely in touch with your mentees in person, by phone, e-mail and/or social media
2. You may arrange gathering with your mentees. Options include: meet for a coffee, go shopping, show them around campus, exercise together, play a ball game, etc. Through the gathering, you may know more about your mentees' need and provide support
3. Be proactive and offer support for academic or personal issues. You may also need to encourage your mentees to be proactive
4. Listen attentively to understand your mentees and provide constructive feedback
5. Be approachable, open-minded and empathetic
6. Instead of doing things for the mentees, give them some advice and allow them to work things out by themselves
7. Contact your peer mentor staff advisor when you need assistance or some advice
Want to be a Peer Mentor?
Please click here for more details of the 2025-26 Peer Mentor recruitment.
Being a Mentee
Each new student is matched with a mentor of the same faculty/course of study for better transition. You will be led by a peer mentor to participate in the University Life Orientation Workshop. Mentoring provides you, as a new student, with an immediate support system and information source. As a result, you can be more well-informed about campus resources and activities, build peer networks faster and adjust to university life sooner.
What you will gain …
1. Connect with your classmates and widen peer networks
2. Get extensive information about campus resources and activities
3. Receive wisdom and advice from senior students, while you have the freedom to make own decisions
4. Have someone to care about you and to discuss your problems or concerns
What your responsibilities are …
Actively participate in the programme, for example, you may
1. Discuss your concerns with your mentor and share with your mentor both on your great or small success
2. Suggest activities for promoting mentor-mentee relationships and actively participate in the agreed activities
Tips for being a great mentee
1. Take initiatives in keeping close contact with your mentor
2. Take initiatives in recognizing your need for mentoring and explaining to your mentor what you are looking for. Do not hesitate to contact your mentor when you need advice, even if you think they might be silly.
3. Make it a priority to meet with your mentor and be punctual to the gatherings
4. Gather information and advice from your peer mentors or other available channels and find the most suitable solution for yourself. Do not expect mentors to solve your problem.
Want to connect with a Peer Mentor?
Each 2024-25 new students will be matched with Peer Mentor in the University Life Orientation Workshop organised by Office of Student Affairs in Aug.
For enquiry, please contact us by 3411 7435 or cdc@hkbu.edu.hk.
Application and Deadline | |
| By Apr 25 | Complete the online application form, download PDF form after your completion and submit it to your Faculty (broad-based Year 1) or Department (Programme-based and Year 2 or 3 students) by email |
Peer Mentor Training * | |
| Aug 10, afternoon | Peer Mentor Training (in Zoom) |
University Life Orientation Workshop * (UOW1)
| |
| For local students | |
| Aug 18, afternoon | Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Faculty of Science Bachelor of Arts, Science & Technology |
| Aug 19, afternoon | School of Business School of Chinese Medicine School of Communication School of Creative Arts |
| for non-local students | |
| Aug 25, afternoon | Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Faculty of Science Bachelor of Arts, Science & Technology |
| Aug 26, afternoon | School of Business School of Chinese Medicine School of Communication School of Creative Arts |
Caring Action | |
| Mid-Aug - Oct | Provide support and advice to new students through different means (such as gatherings, phone calls, email, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc). At least 2 contacts should be made with each new student to follow up on their further needs. |
* Those who are absent on the Training Day and the University Life Orientation Workshop will be disqualified to be Peer Mentors.
Upon completion of the Programme, Peer Mentor will receive transport and meal allowance of $300, and a certificate of completion.
The Service Leader Award recognizes outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and dedication in supporting their peers.
In the summer of 2024, 141 peer mentors from various faculties and schools were recruited to welcome over 1,500 new students during New Student Induction Day and assist them in transitioning to university life. All new students who participated in UOW1, as well as those who missed it but were later matched with a peer mentor by the CDC, were invited to nominate outstanding mentors for this award.
The following peer mentors have been selected for the Service Leader Award (Peer Mentor Programme 2024-25). They received commendations from their mentees for their passion, positivity, and unwavering support, making a meaningful difference in their university journey.
WONG Cheuk Hei (left)
BA – CHI (Year 4)
Quotes from his mentees:
“Our peer mentor has a good personality and positive attitude, such as always eager to answer our questions, and share with us the different activities and resources of the department.”
“這位師兄為人熱心、關心同學，會向同學提醒學校和學院的活動，例如國安法課程和中文學院印仔talk活動；同時在選課期間，師兄還熱心提供了之前的課程筆記供我們參考，讓我可以提前瞭解課堂內容，選擇到合適及感興趣的課程；而且師兄還會解答我們的疑問，例如locker 開放時間、暑期實習資訊和學校的普通話要求，總體而言，師兄是一位非常熱心和樂於幫助師弟妹的人，衷心希望他能獲得該獎項。”
PAN Yi-ya (left)
BA – HIST (Year 2)
Quotes from her mentees:
“She organized a memorable day trip to Kowloon City, where she not only introduced us to various local foods but also guided us to explore new places that enriched our experience. Her efforts to foster bonding among all members were evident as she created an inclusive atmosphere, ensuring everyone felt welcome and engaged. Throughout the day, she shared valuable advice and tips about university life, demonstrating her genuine commitment to our personal and academic growth. Her wholehearted dedication and ability to connect with each of us truly make her deserving of this award.”
“I am nominating Elia Pena for the Outstanding Peer Mentor Award due to her exceptional support, approachability, and dedication to our group. Elia went above and beyond to assist me in navigating various challenges as a new student. She helped me get in touch with student mentors from the mathematics department, guided me through submitting missing documents to the academic registry, and provided clear instructions on applying for my HKID, even assisting with the registration form. In each instance, she made the process significantly easier and was always available to help. In addition, Elia demonstrated thoughtfulness by considering the needs of everyone in our group, such as including a visit to a local Muslim café during a trip to accommodate group members who observe halal dietary practices. Her actions made us feel welcome and supported in both academic and personal aspects, helping to smooth our transition. In short, Elia’s efforts have made a significant positive impact on my first months at the university. Her willingness to assist with both personal and academic matters makes her an ideal candidate for this award.”
GINNI Vishal (left)
BSC MATH & STAT (Year 3)
Quotes from his mentees:
“I am nominating Ginni for this award because they have been an invaluable resource in my development. They went above and beyond to help me find information I was struggling to access, guiding me to resources I didn't even know existed. Additionally, Ginni provided essential insights and information that significantly enhanced my understanding of what I needed for my career journey. They shared numerous internship opportunities that aligned with my interests, which I had overlooked in my search. Furthermore, they offered practical tips on how to improve my LinkedIn profile and CV, making them more appealing to potential employers. Their guidance has not only boosted my confidence but has also equipped me with the tools necessary to navigate my career path more effectively. Overall, Ginni's support and mentorship have made a profound impact on my professional growth, and I believe they truly deserve this recognition.”