MAX - Mentoring in International Academic Exchange

Mentees/Mentees

• Support for international students in the German higher education system
• Research exchange with an international perspective
• Contact with students of different nationalities
• Acquisition of key competencies
• Social engagement on an international level

Mentors

• International networking at the home university
• Social engagement at international level and the possibility of official recognition (BIK - Certificate of International Competence)
• Improving your own foreign language skills
• Preparation for stays abroad
• Acquisition of key competencies

Are you interested in participating in the MAX mentoring program, but still have questions? Then take a look at our FAQ here:

1. where and when can I register?

You can register via an online form
at any time.

2. will I receive a certificate for my participation?

Certificates are issued at the end of each semester or a certain period of time (if the partnership started later). In addition, mentors can earn 1 IP (International Points), which can be credited towards the certificate of international competencies.
will be credited. International Points should not be confused with credit points for the actual degree program. They are neither combinable nor interchangeable. Mentees can receive a certificate of participation.

3 What should I do if my assigned mentor/mentee does not respond to my contact?

You should give your mentor/mentee about a week to respond. After this time, you should try to contact them again. If contact has not been established after two weeks, please contact us immediately. If no contact is made, you will be assigned a new mentor/mentee.

4 How often should I meet my mentor/mentee?

The number and length of meetings is up to the participants themselves. However, we recommend aiming for a certain regularity of meetings and, in urgent cases, contact via e-mail or telephone.

5 I have the feeling that my mentor/mentee is taking up too much of my time

In principle, the mentor and mentee determine the frequency of their meetings themselves. If there are differences of opinion, talk openly and politely with each other and try to find compromises. For example, suggest alternatives such as telephone calls or additional e-mail contact and consciously define periods in which you are not available (e.g. exam periods/work times) or are particularly available (e.g. lecture-free periods, weekends). If you still have problems, please contact us.

6 I have the feeling that my mentee's questions exceed my competencies or area of responsibility

As a mentor, it is your job to support your mentee, especially in academic matters and during the orientation phase at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. However, if your mentee asks for help that you feel is beyond the scope of your competence and responsibility, then speak openly with your mentor about this and, if necessary, give advice on where the necessary help can be found. If problems persist, please contact us.

7 What should I do if my mentor/mentee and I do not get along or if there are personal differences?

In this case, you should contact us immediately and we will try to find you a new mentor/mentee.

8. how can I contact the program coordinators?

You can write us an e-mail at max@phil.uni-siegen.de at any time or visit us during our office hours. We will be happy to advise you.