ABSTRACT
This chapter firstly review the ways in which mentoring has been conceptualised in the higher education sector and then describes applications in relation to the fostering of intercultural learning in study abroad contexts. To better understand the requisite skills and attributes of study abroad mentors, it then examines the practices of a group of academics from an Australian university who mentor undergraduate students throughout a study abroad programme that spans two semesters. The analysis of their interview transcripts revealed useful information about their practices and offered insight into the challenges academics face during the mentoring process. In order for them to effectively nurture their students' intercultural learning and optimise the opportunities afforded by study abroad programmes, academics need to hone a range of skills and attributes. The professional development of mentors is central to the success of programmes of this nature.
