No one comes to university with the exact same experience as anyone else. But some of you will have identities and experiences that mean your path to uni has been more challenging than others’, or just different.

We want to make sure that your first year provides you with the best possible foundation for your degree - that means no question is too silly, and there are no expectations that you’ll just automatically know how to be a university student.

Our History Hacks Mentoring Scheme is designed to provide mentoring and peer support across a period of 6 weeks. You will be allocated to a small group of 5-6 students, and assigned a mentor who will run a series of weekly tutorial sessions aimed at demystifying university-level History. These tutorials will be complemented by drop-in advice and support sessions.

Eligibility

The History Hacks Mentoring Scheme may be particular suitable for students whose background or identity means they are under-represented in Higher Education - for example, Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse students; disabled students; students from areas of the UK where fewer people than average attend university, and students who are the first in their family to attend university (sometimes called “First Gen” students). However, all students can apply - the only criteria is that you feel you may benefit from some additional academic support. The scheme will run in both semesters, so students not allocated a place in Autumn can re-apply in Spring.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more about the scheme, you can find our Frequently Asked Questions below, and you can express interest in the scheme via our sign-up form:

What is History Hacks?

History Hacks is a programme to help you succeed on your degree programme, including a web resource, events and workshops, and a series of tutorials and drop-ins aimed at supporting students’ transition to studying History at university level.

Who is History Hacks for?

History Hacks is for all undergraduate students, and we hope the History Hacks web resource in particular will have something for everyone. Some events will be targeted to specific year groups, while others will include more general information that will be useful to all levels of study.

The Academic Mentoring Scheme will initially be offered to students whose background or identity means they are under-represented in Higher Education - for example, Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse students; disabled students; students from areas of the UK where fewer people than average attend university, and students who are the first in their family to attend university (sometimes called “First Gen” students). Subject to uptake, we may then be able to offer places to other students. The scheme will run in both semesters, so students not allocated a place in Autumn can re-apply in Spring.

How can I get involved?

The Web Resource: This is open to all! Please explore, there is lots of information on there which has been tailored to Sheffield History students

Events and workshops: These will be advertised via email, and we will ask students to sign up in advance, so we have an idea of numbers. Places for in-person events may be limited, so will usually be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

Mentoring Scheme: This will be advertised to eligible students via email, and if you are eligible, you must submit an application to be considered for the scheme. Places will be allocated based on this application - we will ask a few questions about why you are applying, and what you are hoping to get out of the scheme, to ensure the scheme is suitable.