Mentoring stories

Left: Mentee Maëlle Mangold. Right: Mentor Jahmella Robinson.

Online distance learner Maëlle Mangold (International Marketing 2021) and alumna Jahmella Robinson (Economics 2008) began their mentoring relationship on Sussex Connect during the 2023/2024 Global Mentoring Programme.

Jahmella graduated from Sussex with a BSc in Economics in 2011 and since graduating has built a successful professional career in Risk and Project Management in the financial services sector. She has lent her expertise to renowned organisations such as Deloitte, Norinchukin Bank, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, Deutsche Bank and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

Maëlle studied an online MSc in International Marketing at Sussex, graduating in 2023. She currently works as a Marketing and Instore Coordinator at Mascot International A/S.

Jahmella and Maëlle met online throughout the programme as Maëlle is based in Denmark but also ended up having the opportunity to meet each other in person in London and in Denmark as the programme progressed. Maëlle said she applied for the programme because she was “looking for guidance to… make informed decisions about [her] future”. As a mentor, Jahmella has taken part on both the 2022/23 and 2023/24 Global Mentoring Programmes and said that mentoring at Sussex has helped her to “connect with people across three continents”.

What made you apply for the mentoring programme?

Maëlle: “I wanted to learn from someone with more experience in my field and in the world of work in general. I was looking for guidance to help me navigate my career path and make informed decisions about my future, as I was not sure what path to take.”

Jahmella: “I applied to give back to the next generation by helping others navigate the challenges I once faced in the professional world. Having previously set up my own mentorship programme, which I later closed, I saw this as a chance to redirect my efforts and continue supporting University students and alumni.”

“Having been an online student at Sussex, being able to participate in the programme also made me feel a little closer to the Sussex community.”

Maëlle Mangold (International Marketing 2021)

What have you gained from your mentoring relationship?

Maëlle: “I've gained invaluable insight into the world of work and professional development. My mentor has helped me to navigate my thoughts and ideas about career development. Hearing her stories and experiences was very inspiring and valuable from both a personal and professional development perspective. I had been considering a particular career path for some time and Jahmella was able to arrange a meeting with someone in her network to discuss this path in more detail, for which I am immensely grateful.

“Having been an online student at Sussex, being able to participate in the programme also made me feel a little closer to the Sussex community. Especially as I was lucky to be able to meet Jahmella in person twice, when I visited London and she visited Denmark.”

Jahmella: “I have been reminded that I have a wealth of life experiences that are invaluable to the next generation. Mentoring has also allowed me to connect with people across three continents, providing insights into diverse cultures and upbringings, and how these factors shape their aspirations.”

What would you say to someone considering a mentoring relationship?

Maëlle: “I would strongly encourage anyone considering a mentoring relationship to go for it. It's a unique opportunity to gain advice and perspectives from someone who has walked the path you're on.”

Jahmella: “It is definitely worth it. Not only will your mentee benefit from your experiences and wisdom, but you will also gain a deeper awareness of your own growth and resilience.”

“Mentoring has also allowed me to connect with people across three continents, providing insights into diverse cultures and upbringings, and how these factors shape their aspirations.”

Jahmella Robinson (Economics 2008)

Do you have any advice for recent graduates and students thinking of approaching a mentor?

Maëlle: “It is useful to think about what you want to achieve and what your goals are. Even if they are not clearly defined, this is a good starting point. From there, ideas will develop more clearly as your mentor can help you with your thought process. Be open to sharing your ideas and thoughts and be open to feedback.”

Jahmella: “My advice is simple: get a mentor. A mentor can help you navigate the challenges of transitioning from university to the professional world. They can accelerate your growth by clarifying your goals, expanding your network, and building the confidence you need to succeed in your career. Go for it!”

While Maëlle and Jahmella met through the mentoring programme, you don’t need the University to organise mentoring relationships on your behalf. You can find your own mentor on Sussex Connect. Simply create an account, search for alumni already in the industry you’re interested in and send them a message. Make sure to look out for those who say they are ‘Willing to help’ in their profile.

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