Job Description: International Student Mentor

Transitioning to a new country to pursue education is an exciting but often challenging experience. As an International Student Mentor, your primary role will be to support international students in navigating the complexities of settling into a new country and university environment. This involves helping them adapt to cultural differences, manage academic and personal challenges, and ultimately thrive in their studies and personal development.

This position is ideal for someone passionate about helping students overcome obstacles and achieve their potential. Whether through one-to-one mentoring sessions or dynamic group activities, you’ll empower international students to feel more at home, strengthen their resilience, and succeed academically and personally. Your approach should be inclusive and tailored, recognizing the varied needs of students, be it managing disabilities, mental health challenges, neurodiversity (such as ADHD or autism), or cultural adjustment.

Other responsibilities include hosting group activities like mindful walks, games afternoons, or facilitated discussions around stress management and time planning. You’ll also proactively engage in events such as Fresher Fairs and Mental Health Days, helping to promote the service while building meaningful connections with students. By providing inventive, flexible, and compassionate support, you’ll contribute directly to creating a welcoming, supportive university environment.

The ideal candidate should have:

• A degree-level qualification (or equivalent).
• Counselling skills and current membership of a professional body (e.g., BACP, UMHAN).
• Proven experience in mentoring, counselling, or group facilitation.
• Strong cultural sensitivity and international awareness.
• The ability to assess individual student needs, provide tailored support, and collaborate with specialist services when necessary.
• Warmth, adaptability, resilience, and an approachable, culturally curious demeanor.

Advice on Applying (International Education Perspective):
When applying for this position, it’s essential to demonstrate your understanding of the unique challenges international students face-such as cultural adjustment, homesickness, language barriers, and academic pressures. Emphasize any experience you’ve had working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds or supporting individuals in transitions or new environments. Highlight skills such as empathy, active listening, and problem-solving, which are particularly valuable in cross-cultural contexts.

If applicable, detail any international experience you have, whether through study, travel, or collaboration with global communities, which showcases your ability to connect with and support individuals from different cultures. Tailor your CV and personal statement to align with the specific requirements of the position, focusing on your knowledge of the international student experience and your capacity to adapt mentoring strategies to suit various cultural and personal needs.

Finally, ensure that your statement reflects your passion for creating a welcoming and inclusive space for international students and your commitment to fostering their success. This is your opportunity to demonstrate not just technical competencies, but also your enthusiasm for helping students flourish in their new academic and personal lives.

To apply:
Please send your CV and an additional statement explaining how you meet the role’s requirements to Kate Pitchforth at K.A.Pitchforth@kent.ac.uk. Show your readiness to make a difference in students’ lives while showcasing your skills, experience, and dedication to supporting international education in all its diversity.