Global Utilities

La Trobe University
In2science Peer Mentoring in Schools Program

Peer Mentor Profile

photo of philippa

Philippa James - student - Master of Clinical Audiology, University of Melbourne

Studied: BA/BSc, The University of Melbourne. Mentor: 2008 - 2010.

 

I studied a combined Arts and Sciences degree at Melbourne Uni which gave me the opportunity to explore many different areas of science. Being interested in how the mind and body works, I majored in Physiology and Psychology.

I applied for the In2Science program during my first year of tertiary study. I first heard about it when the In2science Manager, John came into one of my lectures to talk about the program. It appealed to me straight away as an opportunity to do something different and share my love of science with other people.

 

Getting involved with the program has been rewarding in a number of ways:

  • It is a great way to get a feel for a career in teaching or tutoring as a possible pathway from a science degree.
  • Being a mentor encouraged personal development on a number of fronts, notably confidence, organisation, and time-management.
  • The process of mentoring also aids your own learning, encouraging you to think about concepts in different ways and from a more overarching perspective. Over time, I feel I picked up many skills in communication and problem-solving.

    Being a peer mentor brought satisfaction when I was able to help students understand something they were previously having difficulty with by explaining it in a different way. I often found that using a simple analogy was effective in getting the idea across. It was also fulfilling having a conversation with students about what uni life is like and opening their eyes to the many possible pathways and opportunities that tertiary science study provides.

Currently I am studying a Master of Clinical Audiology at Melbourne Uni. From my experiences of peer mentoring through In2Science I feel more confident trying out new things, meeting new people, and communicating with patients in the most effective way in order to transfer ideas and concepts.  

In2Science was certainly valuable in both professional and personal growth at a time in your life when you are presented with many important choices and pathways.

Pip