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We often think of mentoring as having specific benefits in one direction: a��mentor helping the mentee in their professional development journey. However, as an experienced mentor explains, the benefits go far beyond that, impacting both participants in varied and positive ways.��

The lesser-known impact of mentoring

The mentor perspective

Xinyu Dai graduated a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Honours) in 2017. He describes participating in the Talking with Aussies program during his time as a student as being formative to his realisation that mentoring can reach beyond simple professional assistance. "Although the initiative was originally designed to help international students improve their English, our weekly conversations went far beyond that—covering various aspects of Australian society, economy, politics, and culture. This comprehensive exposure not only deepened my understanding of Australia but also enriched the insights I later passed on to my mentees." Xinyu still communicates with his mentor monthly to this day.

“If you feel that you are not yet sufficiently competent or professional to take on the role of a mentor, I would encourage you to start immediately." -Xinyu Dai, Career Access Mentoring Program mentor

�ݾ��Բ����begun mentoring shortly after graduation. Having now experienced both sides, he continues to mentor through the Career Access Mentoring Program and other programs alongside his work. He a strong advocate for the benefits of mentorship for both the mentor and the mentee.

Mentoring plays a pivotal role in the experiences of many students, but Xinyu says we should not forget the positive benefits that flow back to the mentors through their participation. As an experienced mentor, Xinyu Dai says that aspiring mentors shouldn’t underestimate the personal and professional growth this role can offer them. “I've gained so much — from the obvious benefits of professional networking to a level of personal growth that only I truly understand. On the interpersonal front, I have had the opportunity to guide several dozen students one-on-one, which has expanded my network. As a result, I have been invited to participate in various events — from online panels to in-person workshops.” ��

Since beginning his mentoring journey, Xinyu has only redoubled his commitment to this valuable professional activity, and��enjoys knowing that the impact of mentoring also reaches beyond the two participants, expanding the impact event further. "When nurturing an exceptional mentee, the positive impact ripples through their professional influence circle – they may cultivate future talents.”

Shaping careers at vital crossroads��

The mentee perspective

Adrien Felix graduated a Bachelor of Information Technology (majoring in Cyber Security) in 2024, and is now a Sales Support Officer at Chamonix IT company. He says that participating in the Career Access Mentoring Progra