Program Overview

Transition Mentor Programme

The Transition Mentor Programme is designed to support first-year undergraduate students at University College London (UCL) as they settle into university life. The programme matches students with trained student mentors from their department, providing guidance on academic life, wellbeing, support services, and getting involved in the UCL community.

About the Transition Mentor Programme

The programme begins in Welcome Week and runs through to November, with a celebration event in December. Mentors run weekly group sessions during Term One, covering topics such as academic life, wellbeing, support services, and getting involved in the UCL community.

Meeting your Mentor

Students will meet their Transition Mentor during Welcome Week at their department's 'Meet Your Mentor' session. If a student misses the session or is unsure who their mentor is, they can contact their mentor directly.

What to Expect

Students will take part in weekly small-group sessions during Term One, usually with around 10 other students from their course. Sessions are designed to support the transition to university and cover topics such as:

• First assessments
• Study skills
• Careers awareness
• Wellbeing
• Using key UCL systems and services

How your Mentor Can Help

Transition Mentors can help students with both academic and practical aspects of university life, including:

• Understanding coursework and assessments
• Using UCL IT systems and online platforms
• Developing study and time-management skills
• Finding wellbeing and support services
• Getting involved in student life and activities
• Building confidence and meeting other students on their course

Participation, Support and Opting Out

Participation in the Transition Mentor Programme is optional but encouraged and does not affect academic assessment. Students can opt out of the programme at any time by informing their mentor.

Becoming a Transition Mentor

Why Become a Mentor?

Becoming a Transition Mentor allows students to support new students while developing skills in leadership, communication, and organisation. The role is paid and contributes to the student's Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR).

Who Can Apply?

• Transition Mentor: Undergraduate students who have completed their first year
• Senior Mentor: Previous mentors on the programme

How to Apply

Recruitment takes place in the Spring Term. The process includes an online application, shortlisting, and compulsory training for successful applicants.

Information for Departments

All undergraduate academic departments work with the Transition Team to deliver their local transition programme. Departments are responsible for coordinating 'Meet Your Mentor' sessions during enrolment week and may also run additional local induction activities alongside the programme.