At St Andrew’s, meaningful connections are an important part of the College experience. Beyond supporting students to make the most of their university studies, our programs are designed to help students develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to navigate life beyond their degree.
This commitment to personal and professional development is reflected in the St Andrew’s College Mentoring Program, which connects current students with alumni working across a wide range of industries and professions. Whether students are exploring potential career pathways, seeking advice from someone with experience in their field of interest, or simply beginning to think about what comes next, the program provides an opportunity to learn directly from those who have gone before them.
The St Andrew’s College Alumni Society (SACAS) Mentoring Program has quickly become an important connection point between St Andrew’s students and alumni. Students are paired with alumni working in areas aligned with their career interests, creating opportunities for professional insight, guidance and, importantly, genuine relationships. This semester marks the program’s fifth cycle, following its launch in Semester 1, 2024, with interest from both mentors and mentees continuing to grow.
To gain an insider’s perspective on the program, we spoke to current student Tessa Redman (Fr 2025), who was paired with mentor Jonas Tam (Fr 1996).
Can you tell me how you were paired with your mentor, Jonas
Through the St Andrew’s Advancement Department. The application asks about your desired career, and I went into it fairly blindly. I knew I enjoyed Finance and Real Estate, so I asked whether they could find someone in a role that blends the two. They did an amazing job, matching me with Jonas Tam, an Originator at Balmain, Australia’s leading non-bank commercial property lender. From there, we met through the Launch Program organised by the Advancement Team, then had multiple meetings, subsequently, I was offered an internship, where I now work alongside my mentor 2 days a week.
What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
The sheer amount I’ve learnt. Everyone in the organisation is genuinely smart and talented, and always willing to share advice or answer my questions. As a result, I’ve learnt so much about a business I previously had no idea existed, and it’s opened my eyes to a career I can truly see myself in.
What have been some of the most valuable things you have learned?
To always ask questions. The more you ask, the better. At first, I wanted to do everything myself so I’d look like I knew what I was doing, but that often led to poorer work because I wasn’t sure of anything. I’ve since learnt that everyone around me understands this is my first time doing a lot of this work, and they welcome my questions. That’s allowed me to produce far better quality work.
How has the internship helped shape your thinking about your future career?
I didn’t know a career like this existed before the internship, so it’s opened my eyes to a whole new world. Even beyond my own team, being in the office environment has shown me how many different pathways and options are out there and genuinely possible.
What has the SACAS Mentoring Program meant to you overall?
It’s been one of the most valuable programs I’ve ever taken part in. I was lucky enough to secure an internship through it, but even without that, the genuine advice and mentorship I’ve received will shape my entire career. It’s helped me understand my likes and dislikes, and the real opportunities that exist in the workforce.
What would you say to other students considering participating in the SACAS Mentoring Program?
Do it! Any connection you make is a good one, especially when they’re Drew’s alumni who are excited to mentor and share their advice. In today’s workforce, connections are everything, and if you have a chance to make one, there are really only positives. Whether it leads to a job opportunity or meaningful advice, both can have an immense impact on the career path you choose.
The strength of St Andrew’s extends well beyond a student’s time at College. Through programs such as mentoring, students and alumni can share experiences, build professional connections and help shape what comes next. Interested in being part of the conversation? Reach out to the Advancement Team to find out more about the St Andrew’s College Mentoring Program.