Mentoring stories

Left: Mentee Sam Bushell. Right: Mentor Paul Upton

BSc Banking and Digital Finance student Sam Bushell and alumnus Paul Upton began their mentoring relationship during the 2024/25 Global Mentoring Programme.

Paul studied History in ENGAM at Sussex, graduating in 1981. He returned to Sussex in 2019 to study an MA in Contemporary History, completing his course in 2021. Paul currently works as the Head of Specialty at Lockton Re where he heads a division transacting reinsurance in the specialty sector, chiefly dealing with crisis management, financial risk and cyber threat in the global markets. Through his time in the insurance industries Paul has built up a broad set of experience that he was keen to pass on. In his spare time, Paul’s interests include classical music and opera, Chelsea football club, all aspects of history and travelling with his family.

Current student Sam joined the programme because he wanted to “gain perspective” and said it was the “perfect opportunity to explore different career avenues and better understand the realities of each sector”.

Sam and Paul met online throughout the programme and Paul said he volunteered for the programme after mentoring at the company he works at and consequently being inspired to seek a new chance to share what he has learned.

What made you apply for the mentoring programme?

Sam: “Having the opportunity to gain firsthand insight from a Sussex alum was invaluable. I wanted to gain perspective and luckily was placed with someone with 20+ years of industry experience. The mentoring programme provided the perfect opportunity to explore different career avenues and better understand the realities of each sector.”

Paul: “I had mentored at my company and had considered working more with people yet to embark on a career. I saw the programme as a new opportunity to share my experience.”

“My mentor gave me the confidence and tools to secure a summer internship in asset management.”

Sam Bushell (BSc Banking and Digital Finance 2021)

What have you gained from your mentoring relationship?

Sam: “The experience shone a different light on the industries I was interested in and opened my eyes to opportunities I hadn’t previously considered. Beyond practical advice, my mentor gave me the confidence and tools to secure a summer internship in asset management, which is an achievement I don’t think I would have reached without the guidance I received.”

Paul: “Listen to your mentee and think around their responses. You may have much to impart, but does it relate to what they need?”

“Stay relaxed and be yourself. Don’t try to embellish on your experiences, your mentee will take away what they need to.”

Paul Upton (BA History 1978 and MA Contemporary History 2019)

What would you say to someone considering a mentoring relationship?

Sam: “A mentoring relationship is a two-way street. It’s important to communicate openly at the start to ensure both your needs are met. Setting clear foundations at the start creates a strong framework, making sure the relationship remains mutually valuable throughout.”

Paul: “Stay relaxed and be yourself. Don’t try to embellish on your experiences, your mentee will take away what they need to.”

While Sam and Paul met through the mentoring programme, you don’t need the University to organise mentoring relationships on your behalf. You can find your own mentor on Sussex Connect. Simply create an account, search for alumni already in the industry you’re interested in and send them a message. Make sure to look out for those who say they are ‘Willing to help’ in their profile.

Back to news list