Lingnan University Friends Unlimited "Mentoring Programme"

29 Jan 2002

Lingnan University, in cooperation with Friends Unlimited, established a "Mentoring Programme" for a small number of Lingnan students from January to June 2002. The opening ceremony of the programme was launched yesterday (29 January 02) at the World Trade Centre Club Hong Kong. The attendants include Prof Edward CHEN, President of Lingnan University, Ms Tiffany CO, Chairlady of Friends Unlimited, mentors, mentees (selected students) and academic sponsors from Lingnan University.

According to Prof J. Barton STARR, Associate Vice-President & Academic Dean (Humanities & Social Sciences), the "Mentoring Programme" is an excellent opportunity for the mentees to learn from the "real world" they will face upon graduation. In addition, the Lingnan students also have a lot to offer in return. Their liberal arts education makes them unique and adds balance to a society that traditionally places emphasis on specialization. This balance is what helps to make Hong Kong dynamic. He emphasized, "Friends Unlimited aims to work together to help these students become more confident and realize the power they have in shaping Hong Kong's future."

Ms Tiffany CO, Chairlady of Friends Unlimited, added that Friends Unlimited is a non-profit organization with a membership of over 300 adult volunteers to serve as mentors. These mentors are from reputable business organizations and their participation in this programme will give Lingnan students a head start on their careers and life after university. In addition, students would be able to learn more about different industries and how their liberal arts education would give them an edge over other graduates.

The 21 mentees were nominated by Heads of Departments and/or Programme Directors. The final selected students were matched with the list of mentors according to fields of interests. During the programme from January to June 2002, pairs are encouraged to meet at least once a month. Meetings may take the form of "shadowing" social events, and a variety of other face-to-face activities. Depending on the mentor's work nature and company, the student may have the opportunity to work on small projects or visit the office regularly.