An Interview with Lina Petraviciute about Swiss Educational College Mentoring Programme

At Swiss Educational College we run Mentoring programme for students and teams if there is a need and wish to join. Last week we sat down with our Head of Media and Communications Ms Lina Petraviciute and dive into an open conversation about mentoring importance and challenges.

Who Is a Mentor?

A mentor or mentor is someone with whom you may establish a long-term connection focused on the mentee’s growth and development. It doesn't mean that I work with a mentee or student daily to assist them in making decisions, but I am trying to provide full support, knowledge, and instructions over. It's also less structured and is more based on each case separately.

Why Ms Lina, do you think such role is Import in the educational system?

When it comes to learning, having a mentor may be quite beneficial. At Swiss Educational College we try to develop a balance between professional and personal development. And Mentoring, I do believe, is a vital part of it.

Mentors may provide knowledge and counsel to help individuals through their undergraduate and graduate educational journeys. In addition, mentoring may play an important role in assisting upcoming or recent graduates in securing a suitable job. That's why Mentoring programme is also part of our Career Centre programmes.

What would be the key of the Mentoring programme?

Reflection, or as I love to say "learning from past experiences". Working for more than 15 years in International companies, and with, being part of Integration processes in a country I moved to 7 years ago - soon was very clear that reflecting on my journey in balance with my professional is vital for growth. I am glad to share my experience with our students as part of an open conversation of theirs.

Why do you think is it important to share Your story?

Learning from your mentor’s prior experiences and stories prevents making major mistakes in your own life.

What is hard in being a mentor?

Setting expectations.

Student mentors, co-mentors, and students all bring their own set of expectations for each other and the project on which they will collaborate in their experience. Mentors are in charge of managing student expectations as well as communicating their own expectations for how they will engage with the student.

Listening is vital, the same as reading body language. you very quickly learn when the session is going not in the right direction.

What do you find he hardest in mentoring students?

I feel a huge responsibility when I work with students. Your job as a student mentor shifts from educator/mentor to role model. That's why I focus so much on reflection and sharing my journey.

What do You like the most about mentoring programme?

Well, I can speak for hours about it (laughing). I am mentoring adults and students for more than 6 years now, and honestly, it's the process itself. As I focus on mentoring and different reflective techniques, it's a constant reminder to myself too. And I think that is what makes it so impactful for both students and me (mentor).

I also have a unique opportunity to learn more about our students, their journey, dreams and the obstacles I can help to go through. It builds trust.

Thank You, Ms Lina!