Despite all the challenges of 2020, outcomes for students and mentors were positive including increases in confidence, awareness, networks and motivation.
Lucy Mentoring mentees were surveyed at the beginning and end of their mentorship journey to aid UTS in assessing the impact of the program. Likewise, mentors completed a post-program survey to reflect and provide feedback on the program. The survey was a digital form that was sent out to mentors and mentees separately.
Outcomes for mentees
Increased confidence
As well as self-reported increases in confidence, 87.5% of mentors agreed that their mentee’s confidence had increased.
Lucy Mentoring has changed my perception of who I am, and with what I want to do in the future. It has helped me build the confidence I need to realise that everyone in the industry genuinely wants to help newcomers. This program has also allowed me to meet new people, especially aspiring successful women.
– Jannat, mentee 2020
Increased awareness of industry
As well as self-reported increases in awareness, 91.7% of mentors agreed that their mentee’s awareness of industry had increased and 87.5% of mentors agreed that their mentee’s self-awareness had increased.
The Lucy Mentoring Program was a great way to learn about my industry and possible work opportunities, especially when I was feeling disconnected working and studying from home. I feel very lucky to have been connected with a mentor with a lot of experience and have been really inspired listening to her stories and experiences.
-Olivia, mentee 2020
Increased networks and motivation
79.2% of mentors agreed that their mentee’s motivation to pursue a career in engineering or IT had increased.
“I was planning on dropping engineering and focusing on my business aspect but after talking with my mentor about the opportunities available, I kept it.”
This program especially with my assignment of an inspiring female mentor who is undertaking incredible work in my chosen industry has inspired me to keep continuing on my path in the STEM industry. Despite the rocky path and culture surrounding Women in STEM my mentor has inspired me to keep going, she is 100% a fantastic role model.
-Mentee, 2020
Employment outcomes
- 5 had received paid employment as a result of the program and 7 had received work experience
- 13 had received a job interview as a result of the program
- 28 had agreed to continue their mentoring relationships after the program
- 35 had met with potential employers
“I got a job by meeting another mentor at the graduation event. I am very grateful.”
Outcomes for mentors
Mentors reported the following outcomes:
- Satisfaction from giving back
“I gained satisfaction at having connected with my mentee, understood her fears, hopes & aspirations. I hope I was able to provide insight to her on how she can apply her skills an learning in the corporate world.” - Clelia Musco, Dell Technologies
- An understanding of university students
“Being Sara’s mentor has given me insight into what is important to the next generation and how they would like to work. I am inspired by the focus on innovation and sustainability - the future is bright!”- Adriana Jamieson, Suez
“I gained an insight on the hopes and dreams of the new generation of engineers. And met an incredibly charismatic individual.” - Katerina Monemvasioti Kappos, Jacobs
- Professional development as a mentor
“I learnt how to actively listen to my mentee and to apply experiences at work and previous university studies to different contexts relevant to my mentee. My mentee also inspired me to think about potential integration opportunities with my discipline to others (we are both in different engineering disciplines).” - Lydia Saunders, Thales
- Increased professional networks
"I got to watch my mentee grow and secure her first industry related job! It also helped me grow my own network with many young, smart women. We're all continually furthering ourselves, I used this opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zones and grow." - Chantelle Lawrence, Prospa