Run by the National Mentoring Consortium (NMC), the Ethnic Minority Undergraduate Scheme (EMUS) provides BAEM students from some 15 UK universities with an insight into the expectations large employers have of prospective employees.

The University of Bedfordshire launched its EMUS programme in November 2013, with the first 21 participants matched with a mentor employed by a major organisation, ranging from HM Revenue & Customs to ITN News.

And Luton campus-based Bethany John, who carried out her work placement with the Metropolitan Police, fought off competition from hundreds of EMUS participants to claim the Mentee of The Year Award at the annual NMC awards ceremony, which took place at the Royal College of Engineering in London.

“To win the Mentee of The Year Award was an amazing experience,” said Bethany, who had the award presented to her by Chi Onwurah, Shadow minister for innovation and science (pictured).

“I was greatly touched by so many of the stories I heard on the day, especially from the past mentee's that have gone on to achieve so much. At times I could completely relate to them, in terms of the worry of future employment possibilities after graduation, as well as the success they had accomplished off the back of this excellent scheme.

“I was honoured to have received my award from the hands of such accomplished individuals who I have admired for so long, including the Reverend Rose Hudson-Wilkin.

“I hope to one day go back and share with the NMC my success story, too.”

Other scheme benefits included opportunities for students to review their Curriculum Vitae and improve their understanding of their chosen career path.

Trevor Sinclair, Access Partnership Lead Officer at Bedfordshire, added: “The scheme has so far been really successful. All Student participants have grown in confidence and realised personal achievements, underlining the power and impact of the mentoring relationship.”

In addition to Bethany’s award, the Metropolitan Police’s Ezinne Okenabirhie, who mentored Bethany, won the Mentor of The Year Award.