Do you want to help build a strong student community? Are you passionate about making sure students feel a sense of belonging?

Then this paid role could be for you!

Our Pasifika Student Mentor group has been a huge success, so we’d now like to replicate this.

We’re on the hunt for enthusiastic and dedicated people to join our Student Mentor group.

What is a Student Mentor?

A Student Mentor is a paid, casual position. Student Mentors will work alongside our Student Success team to run student events. They will also work with the team to suggest and launch new student-centric initiatives to create a sense of belonging amongst the Otago Polytechnic student community.

What will I gain from the role?

  • Paid position - $26 per hour
  • Great role to add to your CV to make you stand out to future employers
  • Build your leadership, mentoring and communication skills by supporting first-year students
  • Gain event management experience – play a key role in organising and running events like the Warm Welcome for Orientation, Youth Lunches etc.
  • Get experience in general admin and reporting tasks i.e. organising, tracking, and reporting on key mentoring activities
  • Connect with a range of professional OP student support staff
  • Get access to professional development opportunities such as training and workshops.

Who can be a Student Mentor?

Anyone can be a Student Mentor!

We’re looking for people with the following skills and attributes:

  • An open-minded approach to building rapport with people from all walks of life.
  • Flexibility to be able to manage a job that can change rapidly.
  • The ability to work within a team.
  • A solution focused mindset.
  • A community focused mindset and the ability to notice when other community members need extra support.
  • A self-awareness and commitment to finding a balance between study, work and life.
  • An ability to self-manage your time and take initiative.

What’s the different between a Student Ambassador and a Student Mentor?

A Student Ambassador is a paid, casual position that supports the Marketing, Communications and Engagement team with a wide range of events and other casual work across the Otago Polytechnic departments. This role is often focused on promoting the Polytechnic to prospective students and their whānau (e.g. at any Open Days or Taster Days).

A Student Mentor is a paid, casual position that supports the Student Success team with current student events such as the Warm Welcome for Orientation. The role also focuses on initiatives to create a sense of belonging amongst students and to ensure students feel connected and heard.

How do I apply?

To apply, please fill in this Student Mentor Application Form.

Once complete, please send this to vacancies@op.ac.nz

Any questions?

Please email student.successdn@op.ac.nz or freephone 0800 762 786 and ask to speak with Celia Hepburn.  


Published on 21 May 2025

Orderdate: 21 May 2025
Expiry: 21 May 2027