The OBREMS/OBU Mentoring Scheme Launch - March 2023

The Mentoring Scheme is managed jointly by OBREMS (our alumni association) and the School of the Built Environment and is open to second year students on the BSc Real Estate and the BA Property Development and Planning as well as students on the MSc Real Estate.

This is the 11th year of the OBREMS/OBU Mentoring Scheme which offers students a unique opportunity to be mentored by one of our alumni. The launch took place on 22 March at the HQ of CBRE in London. Thanks to CBRE for hosting and thanks to the presenters and all the students, staff and mentors who came. It was a fantastic evening and it was especially good to see those who took part in the Mentoring Scheme as students return as mentors. This year we matched 74 students with mentors and there was a great turnout at the launch as you can see from the photos. Anyone who is interested in becoming a mentor should contact: rdixon@brookes.ac.uk

And now, a few words of advice offered by the of mentors (Andrew Whitehead, Jo Jackson, James Vivian and John Gilder) who presented at the launch:

• As a student mentee it's up to you to reach out to your mentor. If they don't reply immediately, don't be put off - they have busy jobs, don't be afraid to be persistent - you WILL get a reply!

• As a mentor, our job is to listen and give advice, the benefit of our experience, guidance and reassurance - we've all been through what you're going through and will be going through as you enter the world of work. Make good use of us.

• We can offer all these things, but in the end it's also up to you to make the effort.

• We can help you with networking and through our contacts who probably know someone who can help you with a particular issue.

• It's a unique opportunity and one which doesn't need to stop at the end of a year - many mentees and mentors keep in touch for a long time which can be hugely beneficial for both (offering useful advice for the APC process and beyond). The industry is all about people and building networks - this is a great place to start!

Introduction to the Mentoring Scheme Launch by Elaine Tooke

Finishing the evening off with more networking in the pub...