Studying a STEM degree and volunteering with In2science provides mentors with many transferable skills that opens doors to a multitude of career pathways. During their time with In2science, we are committed to supporting our mentors to better understand the career options available to them, whether that be in science or non-science fields; in industry, academia or government,
This year we were excited to once again partner with Toyota Community Trust, who, through their generous support, have enabled the roll-out of a new Mentor Leaders Program. This exciting new project aims to bolster mentors’ understanding of STEM careers and develop their leadership skills by pairing them with outstanding early-career STEM Professionals from our industry partner network.
Through these meaningful professional connections, our mentors will be better equipped to engage in career conversations with secondary students throughout their In2science placement. This semester, Mentor Leaders will also be invited to facilitate a small group career activity at the school where they’ve been placed that’s been designed to spark students’ interest in science and maths. This will help students to better understand their own skills, interests and role models and how these can lead to a rewarding STEM career.
The program, due to commence in early August, is gathering momentum. Nineteen outstanding In2science mentors have been selected for the inaugural program alongside an equally impressive field of STEM professionals, with backgrounds in:
- Biotechnology
- Healthcare and medicine
- Medical research
- Environmental science, sustainability
- STEAM communication
- Technical Analysis
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing and engineering
- Data science
- Intellectual property
- Education
This year’s enthusiastic and diverse group of STEM professional mentors are excited to offer mentees insights into topics such as:
- academic vs industry career pathways
- what consulting vs government vs industry roles are like
- finding your own way even when you don’t know exactly what you want to do
- landing their first job and how to construct a CV and job application
- techniques for acing an interview
- the transition from uni to work
- striking a healthy work/life balance
- honing in on what you’re passionate about
- furthering a growth mindset
- navigating male-dominated industries
- the importance of soft skills in STEM environments
- how to use your science education to succeed in ‘non-science’ based roles
In an effort to provide a tailored mentoring experience, Mentor Leaders selected their preferred STEM Professional Mentors. With the matching process now complete and Mentor Leaders soon to undergo their induction, In2science is confident that all participants will maximise the opportunities this program will provide. This will further improve In2science mentoring in schools and set In2science mentors up for securing a role in the STEM workforce. Armed with resources to enrich the mentoring experience, Mentor Leaders will be meeting their STEM Professional Mentors from early August, with the program running throughout Semester 2.
With such an inspirational bunch of people involved, we can’t wait to see the rich learnings made and shared. Watch this space!
