FOSS Mentorship
Mentorship
FOSS Mentorship Programme
Timeline
Mentor
Responsibilities
Set goal(s) to achieve with the mentee through the mentorship programme, and determine the frequency and format of interactions- Understand the personal aspirations of the mentee
- Share insights or advice on career development
- Offer viewpoints, guidance, or direct the mentee to find the answers
- Provide feedback
Guidelines
- Commit to regular and honest communication
- Open to feedback and constructive conversation
- All conversations should remain confidential
- Be punctual, patient, and courteous
- Respect and mindful of each other’s time and perspectives
- Do not let messages from your mentee go unanswered
- Seek Consent from mentee before sharing photos or mentioning their personal information on social media
At various stages of our lives, we all experience feelings of being lost. This is equally true for my mentees, who are constantly exposed to a world of opportunities without a clear direction. I shared my journey of evolving from a law and politics student to a technology consultant. It wasn’t so much about knowing that this is the right path and following it; rather, I have gained valuable hard and soft skills through every workplace, charity, and extracurricular experience, which shaped who I am today. In hindsight, I can connect the dots more clearly. This perspective has instilled greater confidence in my mentees, encouraging them to keep learning and exploring without limitations. I am grateful to the faculty for organising a variety of networking events, lectures, and chat groups that facilitate easy connections among alumni.
Natalie Leung
When I met Andy earlier this year as a first-year student, he was exploring his goals and figuring out his path. It reminded me of my own university days when I was searching for direction and opportunities to grow. That’s why I believe the HKU Faculty of Social Sciences Mentorship Programme is so valuable. It connects students with mentors who can share experiences, offer guidance, and help them navigate challenges. When Andy was preparing for his exchange in Beijing, we talked about exploring different cultures and adapting to new environments—conversations that mentorship makes possible. Social sciences may not seem like a professional discipline at first glance, but through mentorship, students can build confidence, gain insights, and create meaningful experiences for both academic and personal development.
Pakson Lau
As a mentor in the HKU Faculty of Social Sciences mentorship programme, I've found an excellent opportunity to give back in a way I've long sought. The programme allowed me to practise the counselling skills I learnt at HKU, i.e. building rapport, understanding mentees' needs, and coaching them to discover their own paths forward. What has enriched me most is how much I've learnt from my mentees themselves - their intelligence and passion have challenged my thinking and reminded me that mentorship is truly a two-way street.
Heidi Au
It was a true joy to serve as a mentor in the HKU Mentorship Programme last year. The opportunity to walk alongside a student, offering support as they navigated their academic and career aspirations, was a fulfilling experience.
Katrina Cheng
Mentee
Responsibilities
- Set goal(s) to achieve with the mentor through the mentorship programme, and determine the frequency and format of interactions
- Take the initiative to organize meet-ups
- Proactively share your aspirations and ask questions
- Express your gratitude by sending a thank-you note to the mentor
- Do not contact the mentor at unreasonable hours
- Do not expect the mentor to offer you a job or an internship
- Seek consent from mentor before sharing photos on social media or mentioning your mentor in your resume
- Submit an online report and photos of mentorship activities by June 30, 2026 Consent should have been sought from mentors before submission of the report and photos
Guidelines
- Commit to regular and HONEST communication
- OPEN to feedback and constructive conversation
- All conversations should remain CONFIDENTIAL
- Be punctual, patient, and courteous
- RESPECT and mindful of each other’s time and perspectives
- Do not let messages from your mentor go unanswered
- Seek CONSENT from mentor before sharing photos or mentioning their personal information on social media
Hearing my mentor describe her journey helped me realize that career paths are often non-linear, which has encouraged me to explore various opportunities without fear of making mistakes. She is inspiring, her perseverance of lifelong learning has inspired me … All in all, it was a great experience to meet different people, which has provided me with different perspectives on career pathways, academics and even life. Each meeting has enriched my understanding and inspired me to pursue my goals with confidence.
Currently, my research lies in the field of environmental gerontology. I am fascinated by the complex interplay between individual and environment in everyday life praxis. Through the lens of healthy ageing, I am seeking a deeper understanding of the meaning of age-friendly city by investigating how our physical and social environment can be shaped to promote health and well-being in old age.
Nyla Ho
Beyond professional exposure, what I valued most was the chance to connect with an HKU alumna who could relate to my journey. Sharing my uncertainties about career paths, academic pressures, and personal growth with someone who once stood where I am now was deeply reassuring.
Cody Lau
Looking back, the mentorship has brought about several lasting outcomes. Most importantly, I’ve gained a lifelong friend—someone I can turn to not just for advice, but also for honest conversations about life, relationships, and aspirations. I’ve also expanded my professional network, which has opened new possibilities for my career. Perhaps the greatest success is that I now have a clearer sense of what I want at this stage of my life and how to begin shaping my early career with purpose and direction. The FOSS Mentorship Programme has been far more than a series of meetings or events—it’s been a journey of growth, connection, and discovery. I’m deeply grateful to Quiteria for her mentorship and to the Faculty of Social Sciences for creating a space where such meaningful relationships can flourish.
Donald Leung
The most beneficial aspect of this programme was its interactive nature, which facilitated engaging discussions. It was not a one-way transmission of information; rather, it was a mutual exchange of insights. I appreciated the opportunity to share my aspirations and to receive constructive feedback. The mentor encouraged me to reflect on my strengths, values, and long-term goals, helped me better align my academic efforts with my professional ambitions.
Ian Wang
From our first meeting, I felt encouraged to express my thoughts and aspirations. My mentor’s open communication style created a safe space for sharing my academic challenges and career ambitions. She shared her own experiences, highlighting the importance of empathy, active listening, and resilience—qualities that are essential in both psychology and social work.
Avis Yiu
This mentorship programme has been a catalyst for growth in unexpected ways. Most importantly, I’ve learnt the power of mentorship. Addison and Miles didn’t just offer advice; they provided accountability, encouragement, and the occasional nudge when I needed it. Their guidance underscored that growth happens at the intersection of curiosity and courage.
Leo Kwan
