Mentoring is an initiative introduced by the UGC in its affiliated universities and colleges, including St. Joseph's Degree College for Women. The main aim of this program is to address the academic and non-academic challenges faced by students throughout their academic journey and beyond. Mentoring involves a relationship between a mentor and a mentee, where mentors, who are student-centric faculty members, provide guidance and support to undergraduate students during transitional phases and difficult times. They utilize their expertise and experience to promote the academic and personal growth of their mentees through interpersonal engagement. At St. Joseph's Degree College for Women, many students come from rural areas with diverse backgrounds and varying levels of preparedness. These students often encounter difficulties adjusting to the college environment. Mentors play a crucial role in guiding, advising, and supporting their mentees, helping them improve their abilities and skills through observation, assessment, counseling, and guidance.
Objective of the Student Mentoring System at St. Joseph's Degree College for Women:
Fostering Healthy Relationships: The primary objective of the Student Mentoring System is to develop and nurture healthy relationships between students and teachers. By providing a supportive and caring environment, the system aims to create a sense of belonging and trust among the students.
Understanding Challenges and Opportunities: The system aims to assist undergraduate students in understanding the challenges and opportunities that come with college life. Mentors provide guidance and insights to help students navigate through their academic journey, encouraging them to explore various avenues for personal and professional growth.
Counselling for Academic Support: The Student Mentoring System plays a crucial role in counselling academically weak undergraduate students. Mentors provide personalized guidance, support, and resources to help struggling students improve their academic performance. They also help students identify and address any barriers to their success.
Coping with Personal Problems: Apart from academic challenges, mentors in the system also play a vital role in helping troubled students cope with extra-academic and personal problems. They provide a safe space for students to discuss their concerns, offer emotional support, and connect them to appropriate resources if needed, ensuring their overall well-being.
Ensuring Academic and Professional Performance: The student mentoring system aims to ensure the academic and professional performance of the students. Mentors monitor the progress of their mentees, track their attendance, and provide timely feedback and guidance. They help students set goals, develop effective study habits, and enhance their skills to succeed academically and professionally.
Refining Teacher-Student Communication: The Student Mentoring System also seeks to refine teacher-student communication outside the classroom. Mentors act as a bridge between students and teachers, facilitating open and effective communication. They encourage students to express their concerns, provide feedback, and seek clarification, fostering a collaborative and productive learning environment.
In conclusion, the Student Mentoring System at St. Joseph's Degree College for Women aims to develop healthy relationships between students and teachers, help students understand and overcome challenges, provide academic and personal support, ensure academic and professional performance, and refine teacher-student communication outside the classroom. This comprehensive system plays a vital role in enhancing the overall college experience for undergraduate students.