Anyone who has experienced starting their studies in a new and unfamiliar place knows how decisive the first weeks can be. It’s not just about figuring out how enrollment works or where the library is located, but about finding a point of reference: someone who can explain what doesn’t appear in brochures, help decode everyday customs, and open the door to new friendships.

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This is where a well-designed mentorship system makes all the difference. It’s not only about supporting those who are arriving, but also about building connections that benefit both sides. For international students, it means gaining confidence and a sense of security more quickly. For local students, it is a unique opportunity to broaden their perspective, practice new languages, and build a more diverse circle of peers. Here’s how to make it work!

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Define the “why”

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Before designing any structure, it’s essential to ask the key question: why do we want this mentorship system? A program focused solely on solving practical doubts is very different from one aimed at fostering cultural integration or encouraging academic engagement. Clear goals help guide both the mentor selection process and the type of activities to be included.

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Choose the right mentors and equip them

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Being a mentor is not just about having good intentions. It requires empathy, patience, and the ability to provide support without overstepping. That’s why the selection process should go beyond simple volunteerism: brief interviews, reviewing motivations, and, above all, offering initial training. This training doesn’t need to be extensive but should be practical—covering how to communicate with someone still learning the language, how to address cultural misunderstandings, and where to refer questions they cannot answer themselves.

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Match thoughtfully

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One of the most common mistakes is assuming it’s enough to randomly assign each international student a “host.” Experience shows that when there’s some common ground, the relationship flows more naturally. Quick surveys about interests, sports, languages, or academic fields can help create stronger matches. It’s not about finding the “perfect pair,” but about increasing the chances of a genuine connection.

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Provide structure without stifling spontaneity

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The first days are the most important for mentorship to take root. A minimum schedule of meetings helps ensure the relationship doesn’t fade due to lack of initiative. However, too many rules can turn the experience into an obligation. The key is to provide a flexible framework: suggest initial meetings, define clear communication channels (messaging apps, email, coffee on campus), and share practical ideas that each group can adapt to their own pace.

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Foster collective activities

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Beyond one-on-one meetings, group spaces strengthen the support network. A cultural excursion, a themed dinner, or a collaborative workshop are perfect opportunities for everyone to meet. These events often lead to friendships that go beyond the program itself and help build a stronger community, where international students don’t rely exclusively on their mentor.

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Listen and adapt

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A mentorship system is never “finished.” Student needs shift each academic year, and what works for one group may not for another. That’s why feedback channels are vital: short surveys, evaluation sessions, or even informal conversations. What matters most is capturing participants’ real experiences and using that insight to fine-tune processes, activities, and expectations.

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Recognize the mentors’ contribution

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One often overlooked detail is the motivation of local students. While many join out of genuine interest, feeling recognized sustains their commitment. Certificates, mentions at academic events, or even academic credit are ways to give tangible value to their involvement. This not only encourages program continuity but also frames mentorship as a meaningful personal and professional development opportunity.

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A strong mentorship system isn’t an improvised lifeline for newcomers—it’s a deliberate strategy to build community. When designed with clear goals, well-prepared mentors, and a flexible structure, it becomes a bridge between cultures and a driver of shared experiences. What matters most isn’t whether a student learns to navigate public transport faster, but whether, through this connection, they find a place where they truly feel they belong.