Mentee Testimonial: Hiu Ying Esther Yip

Academic Program: Bachelor of Animal Science (Honours)

“Things were unseeable, but my mentor has cracked the shell open and gave me some insights on a path that I am about to go down.”

Initially, it was overwhelming to have to speak with someone who is more superior and hence knowledgeable. My mentor has a caring, friendly, and outgoing personality and he was very initiative and persistent in reaching out (before, during and after meetings). I believe that made me feel confident that he was eager to support international students by guiding their future pathways and steering clear some of their misconceptions in the workplace. As mentorship grew, friendship came along, and that was where great questions came in! We listed our questions beforehand and sent them to each other, so we had time to anticipate and reflect on ourselves before entering the next meeting. Along the way, we picked up a couple of interesting topics and then the time flew by. We are now friends and agree to keep each other accountable in our career development. I could not portray a better mentorship to be more effective and beneficial as how this could turn out.

I have gained so much during the process of being a mentee in this program. I could not emphasize enough the importance of building professional networks requires effort and persistence. For example, my mentor regularly sent in emails to follow-up my progress, so, we could communicate the agenda before the next meeting. These are the “small things” that I need to hold on to practice more habitually, especially after conferences or networking events. I realized that by taking these small steps to reach out to others, you will be rewarded by learning something new from others.

I do have a future direction in mind before meeting my mentor. So, my mentor was a great listener and advisor on helping me to straighten up my thoughts and guiding me to find the right resources to develop my skills. Think big, and make subtle, small, and persistent steps. Then you will be able to enjoy your ride and reach your goal gradually.

This program provides a safe place for students to ask questions, which you normally would not know who to ask, and knowing that you will not receive judgement.  Mentors are busy— like everyone else, but these are the people who are willingly giving away some of their valuable time to nurture the next-in-line industry professionals. Needless to say, their advice are wise and are accumulated throughout their professional career development. So, be respectful, be curious and be prepared. It is okay to feel overwhelming, that is the reason why they are here for help. And if you are to ask for someone who can give you honest feedback and insights? You have stepped into the right door for it.