Have you been looking for clarity, direction and support to navigate school (secondary, college or university) and your career path? Yes? Well, you my friend, are in the right place!

About mentorship

The Student's Friend 7-week Group Mentorship Programme is designed specifically for students, recent graduates, and early career professionals like you. Through weekly sessions, we'll work with you to create a clear and actionable path for your academic and career success. This mentorship is virtual and built on tailor-made resources I have developed from my own experiences and educational journey.

Who am I?

My name is Oluwatoni Akinola, Founder and Lead Mentor at The Student's Friend. I have a BSc Biomedical Science from University of Surrey with a year of research at Public Health England (PHE), now known as United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA). I also have an MSc Control of Infectious Diseases from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and worked with infectious disease experts at Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention as Technical Assistant (Policy) to the Director General during the COVID-19 pandemic and outbreaks such as cholera, diphtheria, and mpox. Now, I work as a Program Manager at Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh (DRASA) Health Trust designing and implementing high-impact projects addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a critical global health threat. LinkedIn, Website

The tea

Beyond this, believe it or not, just like you, I have struggled with confusion about what course to study, what career to pursue and how to get through these without drowning. I know what it's like to pursue a course with so much zeal and then doubt your capabilities, be faced with application rejections, and have to make changes in your pursuit. I know what it's like to have classes and feel like teaching is in a foreign language, struggle with being behind, shy to ask questions, feel incapable of building a network (which they say is our net worth!) and so much more. But, plot twist, I graduated from higher education institutions (twice!) with great results, have worked at both UK and Nigeria national public health institutes, and built my confidence, network, and strengthened my character along the journey.

Okay, so now what

So, with one session every week for 7 weeks, I'll work with you in a group setting to help you to help you overcome confusion, gain clarity and direction, and I'll provide support as you develop a plan to get from where you are to where you want to be. Super important to your journey are character, confidence and the ability to connect with people, so I'll provide guidance on these to help you become your best self.

The session format

(subject to customisation to suit cohort needs)

Exploring Interests, Strengths and Direction: We will identify your interests, strengths, and values to uncover the paths that are worth exploring.
Plotting Your Path: A very significant part of this mentorship, we will translate your ideas into a clear, strategic plan with practical steps for your next phase.
Confidence, Character & Mindset: We will discuss and develop the internal qualities - confidence, discipline, and resilience - needed to grow and succeed.
Connecting with People: We will explore how to build meaningful relationships and network authentically.
Finances and Mental Health: We will focus on managing your life well - building healthy habits, financial awareness, and emotional balance.
CV, Personal Statement & LinkedIn: We will refine how you present yourself, ensuring you are well-positioned for opportunities.
Action & Accountability: We will consolidate your learning into a clear plan and establish accountability systems to sustain your growth. Finally - but usually sadly because it will be a fulfilling and exciting few weeks - we will end your sessions by reviewing your progress and refining your plans.

Each session is a one-hour call where you'll leave better than you came.

After payment, I will send you a welcome email with information on your sessions and all you need to know.

I'm really looking forward to being your mentor! See you soon :)

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~ RE: Payment ~

[If you really need a payment plan for this mentorship, email thestudentsfriendmentorship@gmail.com]

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