‘I love to see the growth in my mentees – they often usually start the sessions quite nervous but by the end of the programme they have come out of their shells and you can see the growth in confidence.’

Charlotte Berry, BA Marketing 2015, Digital Analytics Manager, ARCO

As part of National Volunteer Week 2025 we are spotlighting on one of our dedicated alumni volunteer mentors. At the heart of the University of Hull’s Career Mentoring Programme is a mission: to support students in building confidence, exploring career options, and making the often-daunting transition from university life to the workplace. Through meaningful, mentor-led conversations alumni like Charlotte Berry are playing a key role in supporting students’ journeys.

Charlotte, a 2015 graduate in Marketing, has been volunteering with the University’s Careers Mentoring programme since 2017. Charlotte explains her motivations for volunteering:

“I love the university and I love that I can give back to others, so it’s a no-brainer for me to help where I can. I remember how nervous I was about graduating and figuring out what came next. If I can help build confidence in someone else and share real-life experience, then I know I’ve done a good job.”

Charlotte’s mentoring journey has been a rewarding one. Over the last 8 years, she’s witnessed first hand how her mentees grow — not just professionally, but personally.

“They often start the sessions quite nervous, but by the end of the programme they’ve come out of their shells. You can really see the growth in their confidence. It’s incredibly fulfilling — and while the official programme ends, I always tell my mentees they can reach out to me for life. Hearing from them years later about their successes is one of the best parts.”

Students, too, recognise and appreciate the impact of the programme. Charlotte’s most recent mentee, Haowei Shi, who is due to graduate this summer from our BA Business Management commented:

“Charlotte went above and beyond — sharing advice on job applications, interviews, and CV writing. Their support was tailored to my goals and truly boosted my confidence. What helped most was their insight into securing a graduate scheme — practical, personal, and encouraging. Thanks to their guidance, I feel prepared for what comes next.”

Despite it being nearly a decade since graduation, Charlotte feels a lasting connection to the University of Hull and encourages other alumni to get involved:

“This will be my eighth year as a mentor, and I look forward to meeting my new mentee every time. The flexibility makes it manageable and rewarding. It doesn’t take a huge time commitment — but the impact can last a lifetime.”

The Career Mentoring Programme matches students with experienced professionals based on shared career interests. The relationship typically lasts six months and takes place through online meetings — offering a flexible and accessible format for both students and mentors. Resources and support are provided to help mentors and mentees get the most out of the experience. Matt Beecroft, Careers Service, highlights the importance of our mentors:

“We are extremely grateful to all of our alumni who volunteer as mentors. Their valuable insights play a key role in supporting our students’ career development and helping them navigate the transition from university to the workplace.”

Whether you’re a recent graduate or established professional, mentoring through the University of Hull’s Career Mentoring Programme offers a meaningful way to connect, give back, and make a real difference. If you would like to find out more please email alumni@hull.ac.uk