Peer Mentor Profile

Vincent Lam - Secondary School Teacher

Studied: BSc/BA double degree, The University of Melbourne. Mentor: 2006 - 2007.

I studied a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science combined degree. I am currently a secondary school teacher.

I have always wanted to get into teaching, and was looking for some first-hand experience in schools. It was by chance that I found out about In2science through a friend of mine, who was participating in the mentor program at the time. I joined the program in 2006, and continued for four semesters.

My experience of being a Peer Mentor has really strengthened my desire to become a secondary teacher. Through the program, I learnt how to develop rapport with students, but also ways of handling students who are reluctant to engage in intellectual pursuits. For example, I was once in a class where a particular student would just refuse to do any work. I learnt that a good relationship with a student can give them motivation to do work.

This program has offered me a lot of insider information on the education industry, and I have met a lot of people who are currently providing guidance to my teaching career. From a personal point of view, I had a lot of satisfaction in assisting teachers and students with their academic pursuits in the areas of science and mathematics: I know I made a difference.

In2science has certainly been a worthwhile experience, both personally and professionally.

Vincent