Applications are open now!
About the program
In partnership with the Arts, Engineering and IT, and Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences faculties.
The GSA GR Peer Program pairs new PhD students with more experienced peers in their faculty to foster social connection, skills development and a smooth transition to study and research.
The program runs from July to November 2025, with mentors and mentees participating in 1-on-1 catch-ups, group events and workshops.
This program is open to PhD students in the following faculties:
- Arts,
- Engineering and IT
- Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
Being a mentee
Are you in the early stages of your PhD and in need of guidance? Sign up to be a GSA GR Program Mentee to help build a strong foundation for your future research and study!
Benefits:
- Receive tailored support from a PhD student in your faculty as you progress through your course.
- Meet new people and make connections with fellow PhD students in a fun, supportive setting.
Responsibilities:
- Meet 1-on-1 with your mentor at least monthly.
- Participate in program events (launch event, workshops and end-of-program celebration).
- Contribute to discussions on the dedicated program Teams site.
Selection criteria:
- Current University of Melbourne PhD student, recommended to be pre-confirmation, or in the 1st year of your PhD.
Enrolled in one of the following faculties:
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Engineering & IT
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences
Able to attend the following events in person:
- Program Launch event on Friday 11th July at 5pm at Parkville campus in person.
Apply to be a mentee
Applications are open now and will close at 5pm on May 19th, 2025.
Faculty of Arts students: apply here
Faculty of Engineering & IT: apply here
Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences: apply here
Being a mentor
Are you nearing the end of your studies and feeling confident about what you’ve learned? Become a GSA GR Peer Mentor and share your knowledge with a new PhD student in your faculty!
Benefits:
- Receive a Melbourne Plus digital credential and a $100 voucher upon completing the program.
- Develop your leadership and communication skills with support from GSA and your faculty.
- Meet likeminded PhD students and expand your social networks.
Responsibilities:
-
Meet 1-on-1 with your mentee at least monthly to provide support and guidance.
-
Participate in program events (mentor induction session, launch event, workshops and end-of-program celebration).
-
Contribute to discussions on the dedicated program Teams site.
Selection criteria:
- Current University of Melbourne confirmed PhD student, recommended to have completed your 2nd progress review, or in the 3rd or 4th year of your PhD.
Enrolled in one of the following faculties:
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Engineering & IT
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences
Able to attend the following events in person:
- Mentor Induction event on Wednesday 2nd July at 4pm at Parkville campus.
- Program Launch event on Friday 11th July at 5pm at Parkville campus.
Personal Attributes:
- Committed to supporting a new student in the early stage of their PhD.
- Friendly, approachable and professional when communicating with others.
Apply to be a mentor
Applications are open now and will close at 5pm on May 19th, 2025.
Faculty of Arts students: apply here
Faculty of Engineering & IT: apply here
Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences: apply here
Contact
If you have any questions about the program or the application process, please contact GSA at policy_advocacy@gsa.unimelb.edu.au