Sumanta Sarkar’s Post

New online publication, a ‘Recipe for Success’: ‘Peer mentoring in the Placement experience search': https://lnkd.in/eMrb6hX7 Last summer a group of colleagues from my team and the Faculty Placements team got together to collaboratively share reflections on our peer mentoring initiative that supports students searching for and securing a year-long work placement.  When the Oxford Centre for Academic Enhancement and Development (OCAED) contacted us a few months ago to invite our contributions to the latest edition of ‘Teaching Insights’ (https://lnkd.in/e4_sY3uq) by sharing our reflections further as a ‘Recipe for Success’ we were delighted and seized the opportunity. This ever-evolving, impactful innovation is shared thanks to collaborative writing with Deepa Rughani, Phil Grierson and Regina Toth. Key findings/Any advice for others? ·      To establish a student peer mentoring scheme, you need someone to manage the setting of expectations of the scheme, provide training and manage the pairing of relationships.  ·      It is important to set the scheme within a code of conduct framework based on confidentiality, valuing each member of the partnership, mutual trust and respect.  ·      Consider the impact on both mentee and mentor, both require support, time and encouragement, but both can and do benefit from participating.  ·      Remember to explain how to articulate the benefits of engaging for both mentee and mentor, this is a useful skill development opportunity in itself. Please read of our ‘Recipe’ if you want to know more about the activity and its impact.

Model Mentoring: It’s About Being Human, Not Having All the Answers Mentoring has been a constant theme for me this semester, and it’s been eye-opening to see what students truly need from their mentors. They’ve shared something essential: they don’t expect mentors to have every solution. They want mentors who show they’re human, who understand the ups and downs, and who recognize that mentorship is about guiding—not dictating—each step of their journey. These mentoring expectations from students have been discussed in many forums, from formal training sessions to one-on-one conversations. Students are looking for mentors who genuinely invest in their growth, who set an example for navigating the challenges of academia, and who encourage them to become independent thinkers and problem-solvers. They want mentors who communicate openly, share their own struggles, and help set realistic, yet ambitious, academic and personal goals. Key areas for model mentoring include: • Balancing life and work: Demonstrating that career success doesn’t have to come at the expense of health, family, and personal well-being. For instance, encouraging students to take breaks when needed, discussing time management strategies, and modeling healthy boundaries can go a long way. • Dealing with challenges: Being open about struggles, setbacks, and resilience, showing that setbacks are a part of growth rather than a sign of failure. Examples here include sharing personal experiences with project roadblocks, funding hurdles, or even publication rejections, helping students see that resilience is part of academic life. • Setting realistic expectations: Helping students establish goals that challenge them without overwhelming them, so they build confidence along with their skills. This can involve guiding students on setting incremental research milestones, suggesting manageable steps for thesis work, or breaking down complex projects into achievable tasks. Students also look to their mentors for guidance on professional development—everything from publishing and networking strategies to navigating academic politics. And, as they increasingly emphasize, they value mentors who model personal integrity and ethical conduct, especially in the face of academic pressures. As professors, we are in a unique position to model this human approach to mentorship, to demonstrate that effective mentorship is a shared responsibility, and to advocate for environments where students are encouraged to solve problems but know they have mentors who genuinely understand their challenges. It’s a shift from just supervising to truly guiding—and one I believe is essential for advancing impactful research and meaningful academic careers.

Self Development Thursday: Is Mentorship really necessary? June to December is the peak season for university and scholarship applications, especially abroad. This is around the time that applicants start to reach out to authorities in their field to ask for recommendations.  A colleague recently reached out to me to help them get in contact with our former dean at university for a recommendation. The dean delayed getting back to them and they were very worked up about it. As I tried to intervene I realized that this individual last spoke to the dean back in school and the dean didn't even remember their name. I wondered how they were supposed to write anything good about them with such a background. It is in such circumstances that you need a mentor who will help you set career goals, navigate career challenges , avoid common pitfalls and hold you accountable. However many people struggle to identify a good mentor  and keep them .  How to Identify a good career mentor 📌. Identify a mentor with whom you share similar values. This way you are on the same page on the goals you want to achieve and the strategy aligns with you. 📌. Your mentor should  be in a similar career field with you and ought to be several steps ahead of you in their career growth journey. This way they stand in the best shoes to give you a clear picture of what lies ahead. 📌. The best mentors in your field are usually very busy individuals so it's  difficult to get them to give you their time because it's precious.Therefore make sure that the one you settle with  will be willing to invest their time in your mentorship. 📌 .Many people get attached to mentors through leadership or spiritual training and the two parties barely know each other. As a result, you find yourself attached to someone who doesn't really believe in your potential.  Therefore, I would urge you to take time to build a gradual relationship with a potential mentor to determine the compatibility and ease you through to the next step.  How to keep a mentor 💫. The best mentors are usually busy so you have to pursue them consistently and patiently. Be willing to compromise more to get their time.  Consider this as school fees. 💫. Most of the time we can't afford to pay  good mentors for the value they offer us. So find ways to add value to them. One of my mentors is in Germany pursuing an academic fellowship and I am their extra pair of hands here at home. Throughout our journey I chip in to do paper work, watch their children among other things. It's my small way of giving back to them and they appreciate it. #mentorship #softskills #networking #scholarships #accountablity I am Marvian Kaddu, a Public Relations and Brand Strategist/ Content Creator/ Public Speaker. I empower professionals to implement effective strategies to achieve #CareerGrowth, #SelfDevelopment and #Wellness. For bookings and collaboration please follow my page , send a DM or email me via marviankaddu@gmail.com.

#whymentoring #teachertobea mentor #mindmodelof the learners #beagreatmentor to be good teacher...! #2. Why do educational institutions emphasize the mentoring? Not for good placement record...! not to increase the result percentage.!  Then, for what? Long back, eminent Mr.Nelson Mandela said that “Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world.” Absolutely, there is no doubt about it. Fortunately, Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education gradually increased for the last few years in India. Currently, youngsters are believing that they can improve their industry-specific employment skills, knowledge, and attitude through higher education. Equally, institutions are attracting the talented faculty to groom their students in all the aspects like problem-solving skills, soft skills, and impart the relevant domain skills.  We had a structured interaction to understand the expectation of the learners at the end of their higher education, among the 522 learners, the majority 77 percent of enrolled for good placement with high CTC. 16 percent of the learners mentioned that wanted to take-off with their own business/support to the family business, rest of them were stated some other reasons for their enrolment. In these days, many resources are available to the students to learn the content/concepts from openAI, ChatGPT, YouTube tutorial videos, google, etc. Despite all these resources, why should a student come to regular classroom teaching? Is it for a familiar institution’s endorsed degree certificate? Then, what could it be? Yes, of course , more than the content, they need guidance from the path-showing teacher and need a great mentor who understands their learning pattern, thinking ability and shows them the way for professional development. Our NEP insists that the significance of turning the so-called conventional teacher into the role of mentor to guide the students in the multidisciplinary aspects. Effective mentoring also promotes student engagement, motivation, and retention, leading to improved academic outcomes and increased graduation rates. Furthermore, mentoring helps students build professional networks, gain industry insights, and develop a sense of belonging, ultimately preparing them for successful transitions into the workforce or further education. There are so many avenues to deviate the learner’s concentration on these days, mentoring techniques help to reinforce the goal and emphasize the talent of the learner by tapping learner’s subconscious mind. Moreover, mentoring shouldn’t be a merely timetabled activity where one just to interact with mentees with the least objectives. Mentoring process must be designed with OUTCOME, the pattern of thinking of the learners and their mind model. it can be a transforming learner to get a desired employment, be an entrepreneur or be successful Leader or GREAT HUMAN BEING…!

SLT ACHIEVE MORE WITH MENTORING THAT PRODUCES QUANTIFIABLE DATA Don’t accept the lie that mentoring, Doesn’t 🥹 Produce 🙄 Data 🫣 It is sad to see school leaders are resigned to accept 😬 Poor mentoring is their lot in school life 🤔 ✅ When I was green in mentoring I thought the same ✅I thought cordial mentoring relationships was good enough ✅I believed getting on with students was the gold standard It’s good but it’s the start 🥹 Now I know better, good mentoring is about relationship. Exceptional professional mentoring is accompanied by data 📊 📈 Soft qualitative data 📉 Hard quantitative data 📊 ✅Every school can see mentoring data 😊(see diagram below) ✅ Students would benefit from data driven approaches 🧐 ✅ Results in your mentoring would improve student self esteem and progress 🙏🏾 My main take aways…😍 Mentoring is measurable and poor mentoring has no excuses 😤 ✅ You can measure student improvement in behaviour👦🏽 ✅ You can measure student inspiration💡 ✅ You can measure academic results 🤯 What does it take to have have measurable 🤔 ❤️The courage to admit that poor mentoring practises are no longer acceptable 😧 Hold your SLT accountable for better mentoring standards 😩 Admit your students deserve better mentoring provision Recently, I spoke to a teacher from King Edwards which is a reputable educational brand and they admitted that children need mentoring. 🤯 If a staff member from such a reputable brand of education has realised this within their establishment, what will be different in yours? Or your child’s? Mentoring and non teaching staff interventions in education are now essential. 🤗 because society has changed and students need more than academic development. From my professional experience, the require holistic, integrated support. All I am saying is you can provide interventions that are measurable as they do exist. They are alive and well are they so in your establishment? Yours Truly, HS aka The Mentor’s Mentor😎 P.S key questions, to ask yourself: What are your views of data driven mentoring? 🤯 What do you think of your mentoring provision? 🫣 Have you ever thought measuring your mentoring? 🤔 Are you experiencing the best when it comes to mentoring?😤 What is stopping you from getting the mentoring results your students and parents deserve? 😌 To see more examples of mentoring data you can visit: https://lnkd.in/ek6NXJe2 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ To follow my personal journey via IG follow me on Instagram @hermanwstewart To watch different type of video content follow me on YouTube @ECNMHermanStewart To follow my Specialist Mentor Staffing work to transform young people - https://lnkd.in/ew9Ydy2

🌟LCC Alumni Mentorship Program: An Invitation to Make a Difference🌟 At LCC International University, our Alumni Mentorship Program has become a pivotal platform for fostering connections between experienced professionals and our ambitious students. As we approach the fourth cycle of this program for the 2024-25 academic year, we invite LCC alumni to participate and contribute to this impactful initiative. This year, we are excited to offer the opportunity to mentor 11 student mentees who have signed up from diverse fields of study, including International Relations and Development, International Business and Administration, Contemporary Communication, and Psychology. In previous years, the Alumni Mentorship Program has proven to be an enriching experience for many mentors. Participants often start with reservations but find the journey to be deeply rewarding. Through their engagement, mentors connect with students who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to their discussions. These interactions not only offer students valuable guidance but also reignite mentors' passion for professional development and personal growth. Why Join the Mentorship Program? The Alumni Mentorship Program offers more than just a professional connection—it’s an opportunity for mutual growth. Mentors often find that dedicating time and expertise to guide a student brings a deep sense of fulfillment and renewal. The experience of sharing knowledge and witnessing a mentee’s development can be immensely rewarding. How to Get Involved: 1. Apply: Submit your application through the link below. 2. Connect & Commit: Participate in a brief online meeting with the Career Development Counselor (CDC). 3. Explore Profiles: Review the profiles of student mentees. 4. Select & Interview: Choose mentees who align with your area of expertise and arrange interviews. 5. Attend Webinar: Join a webinar to gain insights and tips from experienced mentors. 6. Start Mentoring: Begin your mentorship relationship with your selected mentee in September. We encourage all LCC alumni to consider joining this program. Your participation not only helps shape the future of our students but also enriches your own professional and personal journey. Don’t miss this chance to make a meaningful impact and experience the rewards of mentoring. For more details and to apply, visit this link: https://lnkd.in/dHAPZPNG

Equipping for Success: The Importance of Accessible Mentorship --- Today, I found myself engaged in a conversation that made a lasting impression on me. I recommended a particular university⚖️ to someone for their studies, only to be told that another university was superior because prominent figures in many fields had graduated from there. The conversation abruptly halted, but its impact lingered. It made me realize how often we judge individuals based solely on their alma mater, overlooking the significance of skills. Building strong skills through mentorship is transformative 📚, yet accessing such mentorship is not always straightforward, especially if your university does not prioritize this aspect of education. It becomes a challenge to navigate the professional world without the guidance and support that mentorship provides. I empathize with students from institutions that don't offer robust mentorship programs, as they often find themselves forging their paths alone, seeking recognition and opportunities independently. Establishing credibility and being treated equally in such circumstances can be daunting. However, I advocate for a shift in perspective. It's not solely about universities providing all the resources and perks; it's about equipping students with the tools and knowledge to navigate their journeys successfully 🌱. Giving everyone the opportunity to develop themselves through accessible mentorship and guidance is crucial. After all, it's not about handing out jobs—it's about showing the way forward and enabling growth. Academic background matters, but discriminating or ignoring individuals based on this is not productive for fostering talent through mentorship 🌍. ---

🌟 **Embracing the Transformative Power of Mentorship!** 🌟 As I take a moment to reflect on my journey in mentorship, I’m filled with immense gratitude for the privilege of guiding students on their paths toward academic and career success. The joy of witnessing their growth, achievements, and breakthroughs is unparalleled. Each student embodies a unique narrative—a rich tapestry woven from experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It is truly an honor to contribute to their stories and watch them flourish along the way. 🚀 My commitment to this vital role grows ever stronger! 🔥 I am dedicated to not only helping students achieve their goals but inspiring them to surpass what they thought possible. 💪 Here’s why mentorship is not just important, but essential: ✨ **Ignites Passion:** Mentorship has the power to awaken a spark in students, helping them recognize their passions and encouraging them to chase their dreams with conviction and enthusiasm. A mentor cultivates an environment where curiosity is welcomed, allowing students to explore and develop their unique interests. 🔓 **Unlocks Potential:** A great mentor possesses the ability to see the potential in students that they may overlook. By offering support, encouragement, and constructive feedback, a mentor helps students uncover hidden talents and strengths, paving the way for a successful journey filled with personal growth. 🗺️ **Provides Guidance:** Navigating the complexities of academia and career choices can feel daunting for many students. Mentors serve as guiding lights, offering wisdom, support, and a personalized roadmap for success. They help students identify their goals, explore opportunities, and tackle any obstacles with confidence. 💪 **Builds Resilience:** The road to success is often paved with challenges. Through mentorship, students develop the resilience and grit needed to face adversities head-on. Mentors teach valuable lessons about perseverance, empowering students to bounce back from setbacks stronger than before. 🤝 **Creates Meaningful Connections:** Mentorship fosters deep and lasting relationships that can profoundly impact a student’s journey. These bonds often extend beyond academic and professional guidance, creating a network of support and collaboration that benefits both mentors and mentees. In fostering a culture where learning knows no bounds, I am eager to connect with students who are hungry for knowledge and ready to embark on their journeys. Together, we can cultivate a transformative experience that shapes future leaders, innovators, and change-makers. 🙌 Let’s join forces in our shared passion for education and mentorship. If you believe in the power of guiding others and making a difference, I would love to connect with you. Together, we can empower the leaders of tomorrow and create a brighter future! 🤝 #MentorshipMatters #EmpowerThroughEducation #InspireAndLead #UnlockingPotential #BuildingResilience #GrowthMindset

#Teaching #and #Mindset: Fostering Growth and Development in Education the concept of mindset plays a pivotal role in shaping learning outcomes and student success. Defined by psychologist Carol Dweck, mindset refers to the beliefs individuals hold about their abilities and potential for growth. In the context of teaching, understanding and cultivating a growth mindset among both educators and learners can significantly enhance the effectiveness of educational practices. The Importance of Mindset in Teaching Mindset influences how individuals perceive challenges, setbacks, and ultimately, their ability to learn and improve. In education, a growth mindset emphasizes the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through dedication, effort, and resilience. This stands in contrast to a fixed mindset, which assumes that abilities are innate and unchangeable. For educators, embracing a growth mindset encourages continuous learning and adaptation in teaching practices. It fosters a willingness to experiment with new methods, seek feedback, and persist in the face of challenges. This mindset is particularly valuable in today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, where adaptability and innovation are key. Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Students Teaching with a growth mindset involves more than just delivering content; it involves creating an environment that promotes curiosity, effort, and resilience in students. Here are some strategies to foster a growth mindset among students: Emphasize Effort and Process: Instead of focusing solely on outcomes, celebrate the process of learning and the effort students put forth. Encourage them to see mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer specific feedback that highlights areas for improvement and suggests strategies for development. This helps students understand that their abilities are not fixed but can be enhanced through deliberate practice. Promote a Positive Learning Environment: Create a classroom culture where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and collaborate with peers. Supportive relationships and a sense of community can bolster students' confidence and motivation. Set Realistic Expectations: Encourage students to set goals that are challenging yet achievable. Help them break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to build momentum and confidence. Model a Growth Mindset Demonstrate perseverance and a willingness to learn from your own mistakes as an educator. Share stories of personal growth and highlight examples of famous figures who have overcome challenges through persistence and resilience. The Role of Professional Development Professional development programs are instrumental in supporting educators in adopting and implementing growth mindset principles.

Struggling with finding a Mentor in your research journey? Whether you're a postgrad, early career researcher, or looking to level up your skills, finding the right research mentor can be a game-changer. Here's a detailed roadmap to help you find that ideal guide: ✅ Clarify Your Research Needs • Pinpoint specific areas where you need guidance • Identify skills you want to develop • Consider your career stage and long-term goals ✅ Scout Potential Mentors • Look beyond your immediate department or institution • Explore academic networks and research consortiums ✅ Craft a Compelling Outreach • Write a concise email highlighting shared research interests • Mention specific work of theirs that resonates with you • Clearly state what kind of mentorship you're seeking ✅ Prepare for Initial Discussions • Have a brief "elevator pitch" about your research ready • Be ready to discuss your current challenges and goals ✅ Evaluate Mentor Fit • Consider their connections in your field of interest • Look for someone who challenges and motivates you ✅ Consider Mentoring Format • Discuss preferences for in-person vs. virtual meetings • Clarify expectations on meeting frequency ✅ Seek Diverse Perspectives • Look for mentors both within and outside your specific niche • Don't overlook peer mentoring opportunities ✅ Discuss Specific Skill Development • Ask about opportunities to co-author papers • Seek advice on building your academic network ✅ Explore Mentoring Programs • Check if your institution offers formal mentoring schemes • Look into professional associations in your field • Consider online mentoring platforms for academics ✅ Be Clear About Boundaries • Discuss confidentiality, especially regarding research ideas • Clarify expectations about work shared and feedback timelines ✅ Plan for Growth • Discuss how the mentoring relationship might evolve • Set short-term and long-term goals for the mentorship • Be open to reassessing the relationship periodically ✅ Commit to Active Engagement • Come prepared to each mentoring session • Follow through on agreed-upon actions • Actively seek and apply feedback Finding the right mentor is an investment in your academic future. It might take time, but the payoff in guidance, opportunities, and growth is immeasurable. PS: What strategies have worked for you? Any tips to add? Share your experiences in the comments! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ By day, I assist in scientific writing and statistical analysis, ensuring clarity and impact in research communication. Beyond my core responsibilities, I'm passionate about exploring AI tools for academic research and enhancing teaching pedagogy through innovative technologies. Looking out for a Research Mentor?? 📱+44-7741396720 ✉ priyasinghuk2001@gmail.com LIKE, COMMENT, REPOST