Annabel Agasild: Mentoring programme helps you ground yourself, develop personally and organise your thoughts
Annabel Agasild, a bachelor’s student in psychology at the University of Tartu, dreams of a career at the intersection of science, research communication and contributing to society. She learned about the University of Tartu mentoring programme quite by chance in the university newsletter. As she explored further, she realised that the programme offered an excellent opportunity to clarify her ideas and dreams with the help of a mentor giving neutral support and a fresh perspective. After that, all Annabel had to do was apply, and a suitable mentor was found for her very soon.
The mentor as a mirror and supporter
“My mentor has a background in psychology and counselling – what more could you ask for in a mentor! She encouraged me to make my own decisions and was always there to bounce off ideas or offer an outside perspective,” Annabel says.
She communicated with her mentor via email or, if necessary, Messenger. At least once a month, they met face to face to exchange ideas and discuss activities. Although both had busy schedules, they managed to coordinate their meetings thanks to skilful planning. When it was not possible to meet in person, they connected via video call.
Finding focus
Annabel found the programme as grounding, structuring and developmental. Her mentor offered a sounding board and support to organise and prioritise her plans and dreams.
“She helped me distinguish between what just seemed cool and what genuinely appealed to or suited me. Especially when choosing a master’s curriculum and a narrow direction, it was helpful to step outside of my head. This helped me narrow down the choice of countries and fields of study,” the student reflects.
Discussions with the mentor also helped Annabel cope with academic pressure. These conversations made it easier to decide what to focus on and how to manage her excessive need for achievement. “The programme helped me sift through my ambitious ideas to identify the most important ones and plan more clearly the next steps concerning my master’s studies and future projects. It was a great opportunity to pause during the intense second year, look beyond the end of my nose, and see the bigger picture again. It also reminded me that it’s important to find time for myself in the hectic rush and, when needed, take things easier. This way, you have energy to do more!”
From dreams to concrete steps
Annabel especially remembers doing the Japanese ikigai exercises and some conversations with her mentor when she experienced a lightbulb moment. “One such moment was when I was choosing the topic and supervisor for my bachelor’s thesis: I’m exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and cognitive psychology under the supervision of Jaan Aru.”
As Annabel has always enjoyed self-development, she would gladly take part in the mentoring programme in the future as a mentor.
“It would be amazing to support someone the way I’ve been supported. I’d love to be a helpful and inspiring companion.”
She recommends the programme to all who want to unravel the tangled threads of their dreams and plans, and start making something meaningful from them.
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