When I first joined the University of Tartu as an international student in the MS Software Engineering program, I was excited but also slightly overwhelmed. There were countless questions in my mind—about academics, career prospects, internships, and life in Estonia. Thankfully, I discovered the Mentoring Programme offered by the University of Tartu, a platform designed to connect current students like myself with experienced alumni.
Image credit: Johan – Paul Hion
My journey in the mentoring program started officially at the opening seminar on October 10, 2024. This event brought together all mentors and mentees, providing a friendly environment where we were oriented about the structure and goals of the program. I particularly appreciated the university’s efforts in matching me with a mentor who shared my academic background in software engineering. This thoughtful pairing significantly enhanced our interactions and the relevance of our conversations.
My mentor is an alumnus of my program and currently works in Tallinn, Estonia’s vibrant tech hub. We agreed to have bi-weekly online meetings to accommodate our busy schedules. These meetings quickly became an invaluable part of my university life.
Throughout our mentorship journey my mentor guided me through various aspects critical for academic and professional success. We discussed practical strategies for managing workload and staying organized, especially during the intense exam periods. With his tips, I felt much better prepared for my final exams and assignments.
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One of the highlights of our sessions was career-oriented advice. My mentor shared his personal experiences and provided insights on crafting a professional resume, optimizing my LinkedIn profile, and navigating the Estonian job market as an international professional. His practical tips on how to secure internships boosted my confidence immensely. One key takeaway was the importance of writing creative and passionate cover letters that truly reflect your personality—something that can make you stand out in a competitive field. Since he was also a non-Estonian, his guidance on finding opportunities and thriving professionally as an international person in Estonia was incredibly relatable and reassuring.
I remember the first workshop emphasizing that mentorship is meant to be a two-way journey—and I truly felt that in our relationship. While I gained guidance, clarity, and encouragement, my mentor often shared how fulfilling it was for him to give back to the university community and reflect on his own journey through our conversations. Our discussions weren’t just one-sided advice sessions—they were mutual exchanges of ideas, experiences, and even a few laughs. It felt less like a formal setup and more like a meaningful connection between two people navigating similar paths at different stages. Beyond academics and career advice, our discussions frequently touched on personal growth topics like mental well-being, motivation, and goal setting. These conversations were especially meaningful, providing me with the emotional support needed to thrive academically and personally.
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As we approached the closing ceremony at the end of February 2025, I found myself reflecting on this enriching experience. Participating in the Mentoring Programme at the University of Tartu had not only provided me with invaluable academic and professional insights but had also helped me build a lasting professional connection and friendship. I surely am in contact with my mentor who is now not only a friend but like a big brother to me. We plan on staying in contact further on.
For fellow students who might feel uncertain about their academic or professional paths, I highly recommend joining the University of Tartu’s Mentoring Programme. The experience is genuinely transformative and has made my time at the university both productive and enjoyable.
Cover image: Taavi Taivere
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