New academic year: Not every (working) student starts with the same opportunities
For thousands of students in Brussels, the academic year has begun once again. For some, this start feels like second nature. Others juggle their studies with a job, caring for a family, or financial worries. Moreover, those who are the first in their family to attend college don’t always find it easy to navigate higher education.
These challenges often go unnoticed, but they have a major impact on academic success. That is why EVA bxl, through its “Together for a Diploma” program, supports working students who face obstacles during their studies and could use extra support.
Looking for students who could use some support
To reach students, “Samen voor een Diploma” visits Brussels colleges every year. In recent weeks, we’ve been to Erasmus University College Brussels, Odisee Brussels, and the Sint-Guido Institute, among others.
We’ll be talking with students, faculty, and academic advisors. They’re well acquainted with the realities faced by working students and often notice when someone is struggling with study planning, administrative issues, motivation, or balancing school, work, and family. “Together for a Diploma” ( SvD) also brings together faculty members and academic advisors to discuss program needs. We’ve done this for programs such as the Associate Degree in Social Work, Early Childhood Education, and Digital Studies.
Volunteer coach Jasmine introduces SvD to an auditorium full of early childhood education students.
Applications for this academic year are pouring in; about 15 student-mentor matches have been made; and the first introductory meetings between students and mentors have taken place.
The same goes for mentor Nikol and student Bas
Bas is in his first year of the associate degree program in Social and Cultural Work. This is Nikol’s second time serving as a mentor with “Samen voor een Diploma,” and she will support Bas as he finds his way in higher education. Since Bas has returned to school after a long hiatus, Nikol wants to be there for him as a listening ear, a sounding board, and a supporter throughout his academic journey.
What already brings them together is their passion for art and music. A great foundation for getting to know each other better and sharing experiences!
Since the start of this academic year, and thanks to recognition under the Flemish decree on sociocultural adult education, we have been working to expand the “Together for a Diploma” program. Originally, this support was limited to Brussels students enrolled in healthcare and social services programs. Now, the support is available to students from all programs in Brussels and the Brussels suburbs. Within two years, we will also expand this support to a university town in Flanders.
Finding mentors also remains a challenge
Just as important as reaching students is finding enough mentors. Because every student who asks for support needs someone who is willing to make time to stand by their side.
Mentors don’t help with course material or solving exam problems. They listen, offer encouragement, brainstorm with students, and help them find their way. A conversation, a listening ear, or working together to create a realistic plan can make a world of difference for a student.
That is why “Samen voor een Diploma” invests not only in student guidance but also in supporting mentors. Through training, peer review sessions, and personal guidance, we ensure that they feel confident in their roles.
Where can we still find students and mentors?
To reach more students, we rely on colleges and universities, instructors, academic advisors, and organizations that work with adults, job seekers, or people in training. They are often the first to come into contact with students who could use extra support.
In addition, we are always looking for new mentors—people who are willing to listen, contribute ideas, and support a student throughout the academic year (2 hours per week). No teaching experience is required.
Do you know someone who could use some extra support during their studies? Or are you interested in becoming a mentor yourself? If so, we’d love to hear from you.
Earning a degree is something a student does on their own. But no one has to walk that path alone.