20 Aug 24 sfG MentorNet at the 2024 NEON Summer Symposium

As an attendee and exhibitor at the 2024 NEON Summer Symposium held at the University of West London on June 13th and 14th, I had the privilege of engaging in profound discussions and showcasing our online mentoring platform, sfG MentorNet. This year’s theme, “Inequalities in Access and Success in Higher Education – the Next 5 Years,” couldn’t have been more relevant in our rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Day 1: Setting the Stage for Change

From the moment I arrived at the University of West London, the energy was electric. With an upcoming general election and significant policy shifts on the horizon, the symposium’s focus on shaping the future path of higher education to 2030 was both timely and critical.

The opening session set the tone with thought-provoking discussions on partnership and collaboration in practice. Listening to key stakeholders and leaders across the UK, it was clear that the future of higher education depends heavily on our collective efforts to address inequalities. The insights shared on how partnerships can be redefined to foster greater inclusivity were particularly inspiring.

I also got a chance to sit in on a session on the coaching approach in post-entry student support which was incredibly insightful. Jess Woodsford from Inclusive Futures, and Martin Walker and Hannah Critchley from Lancaster University who presented on the Lancaster Success Programme, showcasing how a non-directional, student-led approach significantly improves outcomes for under-represented students. As an exhibitor of sfG MentorNet, our online mentoring platform, I found the session particularly relevant.

Highlighting sfG MentorNet: Bridging Gaps with Technology

As an exhibitor, presenting sfG MentorNet was a thrilling experience. Our platform, designed to connect students with mentors through an intuitive online interface, sparked considerable interest among attendees. Demonstrating how technology can play a pivotal role in access and success in higher education, we highlighted features that support personalised mentorship, relationship development, and provide valuable analytics.

Visitors to our booth were keen to learn how sfG MentorNet could enhance student support and success. The enthusiasm for technological solutions underscored a key theme of the symposium: the crucial role of innovation in addressing educational inequalities.

Evening Reflections and Networking

The evening provided a perfect opportunity to reflect on the day’s discussions and network with fellow attendees. Conversations over dinner revealed a shared commitment to advancing social mobility and widening access to higher education. The exchange of ideas and best practices was both invigorating and reassuring, reminding us that we are not alone in our mission. We even got a chance to listen to several past and present students on their journey and their experience in higher education, and it was inspiring to say the least.

Day 2: Deep Dives and Strategic Insights

The second day of the symposium delved deeper into the practical aspects of addressing inequalities. Sessions on the language of access and success, the intersection of outreach, student success, and progression work, and the importance of data collection were particularly enlightening.

We held our own presentation on the second day to a group of eager and engaging delegates. During our presentation, I delved into the concept of mentoring, highlighting its immense value and the profound impacts it can have on both individuals and organizations. I examined the downsides of not utilizing online mentoring platforms, contrasting them with the numerous benefits these platforms offer. Attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of how mentoring can drive success, showcasing real-world examples of enhanced outcomes and personal growth. Additionally, I emphasized how leveraging technology through platforms like sfG MentorNet can elevate the mentoring experience, making it more accessible, scalable, and effective in supporting students and professionals alike.

Reflecting on the Symposium’s Impact

The 2024 NEON Summer Symposium was an exceptional gathering of minds dedicated to tackling some of the most pressing challenges in higher education. As an attendee, I left with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose. The symposium’s emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and data-driven strategies provided a clear roadmap for the next five years.

As an exhibitor, the experience was equally rewarding. The positive reception of sfG MentorNet and the meaningful conversations with educators and policymakers reinforced the importance of our work. The feedback and insights gained will undoubtedly inform the future development of our platform.

Looking Ahead

The NEON Summer Symposium reaffirmed the critical role of events like these in fostering dialogue, sharing innovations, and building partnerships. Navigating the future of higher education with a focus on equity and success requires collective effort, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this transformative journey.

As we look ahead to the next five years, the lessons and connections from this symposium will be invaluable in guiding our efforts to support mentoring programmes.