Feeling unsure about life after UAL? Wondering how your creative work turns into a creative career? You’re not alone. The leap from student to professional is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. What if you had someone who’s already made that leap, walking beside you?
That’s exactly what our Professional Mentoring Programme is for. Think of it as your personal career GPS, powered by someone who knows the terrain.
If you’re a final-year BA/BSc student or a recent graduate (without an MA place set up) looking for that edge, your future self will thank you for taking this step.
What’s a mentor?
Simply put, a mentor is your industry insider. They’re a seasoned creative professional who’s been where you are—they’ve navigated job hunts, built portfolios, and carved out their own path. Now, they want to help you do the same, but smarter and with more confidence.
This isn’t about them giving you all the answers. It’s about them sharing their know-how and helping you light your own way. The goal? That after 6 months, you feel more confident and ready to take on the creative world, whether you land your dream job tomorrow or in a year.
How it works: your 6-month journey
- We match you: In your final year (or as a recent grad), we’ll connect you with a mentor who has at least 3 years of experience in the industry you’re targeting.
- You connect: You’ll meet your mentor once a month (online or in person) for 6 months, with support in between. You set the pace and the agenda together.
- You build your map: Start by looking at where you want to be in a few years, then work backwards. Your mentor will help you break that vision into achievable, step-by-step goals.
- You grow: You’ll focus on what you need—polishing your portfolio, nailing interview techniques, building a network, or just figuring out what you really want. It’s your journey, and your mentor is there to support you through it.
Don’t just take our word for it…
Here’s what recent UAL mentees had to say:
“My main goal through this program was to navigate the current job market within fashion. Through my mentor, I found my first entry-level role in the industry.”
“My mentor gave me some networking advise and, in the end, I managed to find the community I would like to approach and able to do some work with them.”
“I am surprised how far I can go after the programme, If I hadn’t met my mentor, I might have had a lack of motivation since I don’t know what to expect.”
“I had a great time, and feel that I matured, and was able to hold myself more accountable for my actions and professional dynamic.”
This is more than just career advice. It’s about building confidence, making a real connection, and seeing what’s possible for you.
Ready to find your guide?
Spaces on each cohort are limited. If you’re a final-year BA/BSc student or a recent graduate looking for that edge, your future self will thank you for taking this step.
Inspired to give back? Become a mentor!
Are you a UAL alum or creative professional with 3+ years of experience? Pay it forward and shape the next generation of talent. You’ll gain fresh perspectives and the incredible satisfaction of helping a fellow creative launch their career. Interested? Email your CV to professionalmentoring@arts.ac.uk.
P.S. Still curious? Check out our short film on mentoring at UAL to see the programme in action!
Whether you’re seeking jobs, paid internships, competitions, or volunteering roles, this is your space. Are you studying art, design, communications, or a performance course, or have recently graduated? Well, look no further – Creative Opportunities is tailor-made for you! Our goal is to help you achieve your ambitions and make a living doing what you love.
If you are a creative industries employer or have a creative role to offer, you are welcome to sign up and use our jobs board. Have questions or eager to explore more? Reach out to us at jobsonline@arts.ac.uk.