UM FHS Mentorship Scheme Features Diverse Activities to Help Students Connect and Grow

The University of Macau (UM) Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) recently hosted the first event under Mentorship Scheme of the 2025/2026 academic year. This year’s event featured a more diverse and enriching programme than previous years, incorporating not only the traditional face-to-face mentor-mentee interactions, but also sessions on psychological wellness, course selection tips and academic advising. The gathering aimed to provide holistic support to help freshmen integrate into university life, build positive relationships, and develop both personally and academically. The event drew enthusiastic participation from faculty members and students, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere.

FHS Assistant Dean Xuanjun ZHANG introduced the vision and the implementation of the Mentorship Scheme. He emphasised that the scheme is more than a platform for academic guidance, it is a meaningful opportunity for students to explore their potential, broaden their perspectives, and build lasting connections with mentors and peers. Through regular gatherings and diverse activities, the programme fosters interaction and mutual support, laying a strong foundation for students’ growth in academic, personal, and professional dimensions.

During the event, Henry Hang Fai KWOK, Head of Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ying ZHENG, Head of Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Ningyi Shao, Programme Coordinator of  Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics programme, engaged in face-to-face conversations with students. They addressed questions related to course selection, academic planning and career development, offering practical advice and sharing personal insights. The interactive discussions were well-received and sparked thoughtful reflections among students.

Mia WONG, Functional Head of Student Counselling Section at the Student Affairs Office, delivered a talk titled ‘We Are Here for You’, in which she explored common psychological challenges faced by university students and offered strategies for emotional adjustment. She highlighted that seeking support is a sign of maturity and self-care. Her professional insights not only deepened students’ understanding of mental health, but also strengthened their trust in the university’s support resources, helping them build a solid foundation for emotional well-being throughout their academic journey. The event concluded with a relaxed and engaging session titled ‘Shall We Talk?’, where mentors and mentees gathered for informal conversations. This casual setting encouraged open sharing of academic and personal experiences, fostering deeper understanding and stronger bonds.

Wai Ian MAK, a year one student of FHS, remarked that the Mentorship Scheme has provided substantial support for freshmen. Coming from a non-English-medium secondary school, she initially felt overwhelmed by the English-language instruction at UM. Fortunately, her mentor, Prof Guodong Li, proactively reached out to meet with her and offered timely advice and guidance, which helped her gradually regain confidence. She also highlighted the value of being grouped with peers from the same academic discipline, noting that they were ‘on the same wavelength’, which enabled them to better understand one another’s perspectives and needs. Through mutual support, they overcame challenges together and fostered a positive and encouraging learning environment, which provided her with steady support and strength as she adapted to the new academic setting.

The Mentorship Scheme of FHS gather students with professors from the same academic discipline, facilitating regular interactions and meaningful relationships. Mentors not only provide academic guidance, but also offer advice on life and career planning, serving as trusted navigators throughout the students’ university journey.