Become a Young Achievers Program mentor

Current UQ undergraduate students can apply to be mentors in the Young Achievers Program.

Mentors work closely with Young Achievers throughout Years 11 and 12 as they transition from school to university. UQ students selected as mentors for this program play an essential role in supporting, motivating and inspiring students to set and achieve their personal and educational goals.

Learn more about the Young Achievers Program

Mentor applications are now closed for the 2025 program. The next round of applications will open in September 2025 for the 2026 program.

    Eligibility criteria

    To be a mentor, you must:

    • be a UQ undergraduate with at least 1 year remaining in your degree
    • have completed at least 1 full-time semester at UQ
    • be at least 18 years old
    • be eligible for a Blue Card
    • be open to cultural diversity and interested in connecting with underrepresented youth
    • have strong communication skills and a passion for mentorship
    • demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to long-term mentoring.
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    Benefits of mentoring

    Participating in the program can contribute to the UQ Employability Award. This is a significant university award that is highly regarded by employers.

    You will be able to: 

    • inspire and make a difference in the lives of young people 
    • participate in on-campus experiences for Young Achievers (such as camps)
    • develop interpersonal, leadership, teamwork and communication skills while improving your resume
    • make many life-long friends 
    • receive recognition from UQ in a variety of ways including ongoing training, professional development and team events.

    Mentor explains something to a student they are sitting with.

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    Role and commitments

    You will be a helpful and accessible point of contact for young achievers for up to 2 years as well as being a:

    • positive role model, who will inspire students to develop their interpersonal, communication and service leadership skills
    • source of information, motivation and support on a regular basis
    • supervisor and activity facilitator during residential camps and open days, providing a safe environment and a rewarding experience for students to grow and learn.

    Please ensure you can meet the time commitments before applying to become a mentor. 

    Time commitments 

    Mentors must commit to the program for a minimum of 1 year with the option to renew for a second year and must be available for required activities which start in October. 

    Exact dates to be confirmed.

    2025 required activities
    • 3 August: Open Day at St Lucia campus
    • September: Selection afternoon – group interviews
    • October: Meet and greet evening
    • November: Compulsory training
    2026 required activities
    • January: Year 11 and Year 12 camp
    • February: Mentor phone call training
    • March to December: 6 (on campus) phone calls
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    Contact

    For more information about mentoring for the program, contact: 

    Xavier Garcia, Senior Widening Participation Officer (Mentoring)

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