Welcome to the Cultural Mentor Program

The Cultural Mentor Program offers new students a supportive and encouraging space to kick start their journey studying at UNSW. It introduces new international students to a senior student called a Cultural Mentor who can help make the transition to UNSW easier.

Cultural Mentors are experienced and friendly local and international student volunteers who are available to answer questions about learning at UNSW or living in Sydney. New students can even apply to be matched with a Cultural Mentor prior to their arrival in Australia. All Cultural Mentors have been through a selection process and have been trained to provide commencing students guidance on everything they need to thrive during their time studying at UNSW, including support services available at UNSW, information about living in Sydney, development opportunities available, and students will also get the chance to meet new friends from around the world!

I am a new student, why should I become a Mentee?

By becoming a Cultural Mentee, you will have 

  • An easier transition to University with an experienced student Mentor as your guide, 

  • All the information you need to kick start your journey studying at UNSW and living in Sydney, 

  • Opportunities to practice your oral English through regular 1:1 time with your Mentor, 

  • A warm and welcoming space to meet and connect with other international students, either from the same or different countries, through social meetings online and on campus.  

How can I become a mentee?

Applications for T3 2024 are now closed. Please check back before O-week to sign up for T1 2025.

The process is easy, you just have to fill in a simple request form with your personal details and we will match you up with a suitable Mentor! Once we've received your request, we will start the matching process prior to Week 1 and you will be contacted by your Mentor via email. 

*Please note that Cultural Mentors cannot provide specific advice on jobs, internships or academic related subjects. They can direct you to relevant support services and can provide general advice, but are mainly here to help you socially integrate in your first year. 

Eligibility to become a mentee for the Cultural Mentor Program is limited to first-year students only.

If you are interested in finding out more about the program, or being updated when applications open, fill out our expression of interest form!

Click Here

Hear from our past Mentees

"Starting university could be challenging, especially for overseas students like myself. The Cultural Mentor Program assists me in adapting well. It was nice to have a mentor who could answer any of my questions about the university, even if they were as simple as where to grab tasty meals! It also allows me to make friends from other cultural backgrounds and encourage one another, which is a fantastic way to kick off my university days!"

-Jesselyne Gratia Sylvian (she/her), Bachelor of Food Science, Indonesia

"I'm grateful to join Cultural Mentor Program at the beginning of my study here at UNSW. Being part of this program allowed me to have opportunities to meet and interact with students around the world. The program, including the activities and the people, makes me feel welcomed and has helped me build confidence in starting my life and academic journey in Australia."

-Nurma Nita Aprilia (she/her), Master of Development Studies, Indonesia

"Joining the Cultural Mentor Program was a great decision. My mentor helped me get used to the new university and answered all my questions regarding course organization. In addition, he showed me the city and suburbs and drove me around to local spots. I think the mentor program is great opportunity for people who want to integrate and get to know a diversity of people."

-Lukas Hampe (he/him), Bachelor of Science (Business Administration), Germany

I am a senior student, how can I become a Cultural Mentor?

For details, please visit Apply to Become a Cultural Mentor.

Do you have any questions? Contact us.
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