This past semester has been rich in learning experiences and meaningful engagement for the students participating in Bridges by Mentors at Université Savoie Mont Blanc, France. Throughout the autumn of 2025, they actively developed their transversal and mentoring skills, while contributing to the local community in the cities of Chambéry and Annecy.
We began with a Mentoring Training Session, where students strengthened key skills such as active listening, communication, and adaptability. It was especially exciting to welcome students who joined the program for the first time, bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the group. The session was made even sweeter by tasting home-made crêpes together. Students then participated in a team-building hike near Chamonix, enjoying a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc. This experience not only strengthened group cohesion but also helped international students feel more connected to their host region and to one another.
Several students committed to weekly mentoring with the local association AFEV (Association de la Fondation Étudiante pour la Ville). Mentors supported disadvantaged children with homework, helped them broaden their horizons, and accompanied them in discovering new activities and experiences. Beyond academic support, they acted as role models, encouraging confidence and a sense of possibility.
Community engagement remained central throughout the semester. During a library activity called “Éveil aux langues,” students introduced local children to their native languages and cultures, sparking curiosity and promoting intercultural openness from a young age.
Finally, two students took part in the Transnational Student Meeting in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, which they found extremely valuable for further developing their mentoring skills. Meeting student mentors from four other participating universities, representing many different nationalities, was an inspiring opportunity to exchange practices and strengthen their sense of belonging to an international mentoring community.
We are seeing the immensely positive impact that Bridges by Mentors is having on both the local community and the participating students, and we look forward to continuing and expanding these initiatives next semester at Université Savoie Mont Blanc.