Reflections on My Journey as an Alumni Mentor
It is a privilege for me to be a mentor for the Macquarie (MQ) Graduate Futures Mentoring Program, an opportunity that marked another impactful chapter in my professional journey. Previously, I was an active member of the Higher Degree Research (HDR) Mentors at Macquarie University. Recently, I have finished a 6-week Alumni Mentoring program, which is another way for me to give back to my beloved alma mater. The program began with a mentor orientation, which officially launched on September 11, 2025. This pilot initiative brought together 150 nominated students from both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, along with over 40 selected alumni from diverse backgrounds and expertise worldwide. This orientation prepared me to engage with my mentee effectively and highlighted the importance of guidance and support within the program.
As my mentee resides in Sydney, our interactions have been conducted through online sessions. This virtual engagement has been a wonderful learning process, allowing me to adapt my mentoring approach and foster a productive relationship despite the geographical distance. The mentoring experience has allowed me to expand my professional knowledge and skills. Through meaningful discussions and facilitating others, I have deepened my understanding and enhanced my abilities in various domains.
I aspire for my mentee to gain practical knowledge from my journey as an academic, international consultant, and professional accountant. I discovered an incredible opportunity to share the knowledge and experiences that have shaped my own path. The role was not just about guiding others; it was a transformative experience for me as well. It reignited my passion and allowed me to see the world through fresh eyes—the eyes of an eager learner ready to take on challenges. By sharing my experiences, I hope to provide valuable insights that will benefit her prospective path.
As I connected with my mentee, I realised how much I learned from her questions and ambitions. Her excitement reminded me of my own academic journey, bringing back memories of uncertainty and discovery. Together, we created a space where ideas flowed freely, and I felt privileged to witness her growth and development. Being an Alumni Mentor is more than just imparting wisdom; it is about fostering relationships that inspire both mentor and mentee alike.
In conclusion, being part of this program has brought me immense fulfillment. In this role, I have come to appreciate the profound impact of giving back to the alma mater that helped shape my identity. The lessons learned have been mutual; what started as a commitment to support the next generation has transformed into an enriching experience that has forever changed my perspective on mentorship. This process has been rewarding, both in terms of my personal growth and in the positive influence I hope to have on my mentee’s future journey.