Help students with autism spectrum conditions: become a NAVIGATE peer mentor in T2
Adjusting to university is a big deal for anyone, but particularly for students who have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We offer commencing students with ASD additional support through our NAVIGATE program. A big part of the program is the role of our student mentors, who offer personalised support and advice to participants.
We’re currently looking for some enthusiastic and dedicated peer mentors to be a part of NAVIGATE in Trimester 2, 2021.
How NAVIGATE works
The NAVIGATE program pairs experienced and friendly student mentors with participants (mentees) to support their transition to studying at Deakin. Mentees must be registered with the Disability Resource Centre (DRC) and have ASD.
Over two trimesters, mentors and mentees meet weekly for 30 minutes either on campus or via Zoom, and also stay in touch via email or online messaging.
As a mentor, you’ll help to build confidence and independence, and offer mentees practical advice and help. This ranges from helping them to use Deakin’s online tools or find classrooms, to linking them to study support or Deakin clubs and societies. Sometimes it’s just about being a friendly face around campus!
Who we’re looking for
NAVIGATE mentors must have completed one year of studies at Deakin and have at least three active trimesters of their course left to complete. You need a sound academic record, emotional intelligence, good communication skills and – importantly – some understanding or experience of people living with ASD or other disabilities.
Previous peer mentoring training and experience is desirable.
You must also be able to commit to the following:
- meeting individually with one to two mentees for a minimum of 30 minutes each week
- communicating with your mentee/s via email and messaging
- providing weekly reports and attending group and individual supervision sessions
- participating in two to three social events each trimester
- being respectful and positive at all times.
This is a paid position.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you!
How to apply
Please provide an expression of interest that includes:
- your CV
- a personal statement outlining why you’re interested, your mentoring background and any experience with people living with ASD or other disabilities.
Email your application to [email protected] and [email protected] by Monday 21 June. Interviews will be held on Thursday 24 June and induction training in the week beginning Monday 28 June.