All Mentors are alumni with at least 5 years of post MArch working experience. We have received overwhelming responses from our alumni to serve as mentors. While some of you may not have a clear picture on your future path or what type of mentor you are looking for, here is a brief elaboration to help on your decision.

The Mentors come from diverse backgrounds. They can be generally categorized by their work focus:

• Architects working in Architectural Consultant firms of different scale or Site Office –

The conventional type Architect, who gets his/her feet wet at the design, project management, coordination work with other consultants, monitoring construction, ensuring compliance of regulations, etc.

• Architects working in Public Sector eg. at Buildings Department, Housing Department, Architectural Services Department, Hospital Authority, etc. –

Coming from the background of being an architect, this group of alumni contributes in building public projects for the community. Some may be involved in building control and it’s administration.

• Architects as Project Managers on client side –

Architects who have moved to the developer side. They give inputs to the end products, manage the consultants team and the day-to-day procurement of the project to meet target and budget.

• Architects as Lecturer / Professor teaching at Institutions

Have a look at the teachers in your studio, but these mentors are alumni, and teaching in other design schools.

• Architects working in Non-Government Organisations (NGOs)

Architects who are inspired to serve the community with their professional background, such as focusing on elderly welfare, children development, and art programs.

The Mentors can also be generally grouped by the no. of years of experience after graduation:

• More than 20 years –

This group of Mentors has the most extensive network and connection within and beyond the profession, they are the deepest well of insight on building career. They are more seasoned, and have walked through different stages in the industry.

• 10 to 20 years –

This group of Mentors can walk you through on your path finding in the profession. They are mellow yet still looking for windows of opportunities.

• 5 to 10 years –

This group of Mentors has the clearest remembrance of their preparation for HKIA professional assessment. They can offer fresh insights in tackling the exam and job market. They are the most supple group.

There are many factors to a successful mentorship:

• active participation from Mentors and Mentees
• effective communications by all means
• strong sense of trust and mutual respect