We often talk about the features of WAYUP’s educational programs, their principles and relevance. But we can’t overlook such an important aspect as mentorship. Without skilled and attentive mentors, we wouldn’t have achieved the level of training effectiveness we have today. So who are the mentors, and what do they do? Nikita Polishchuk, head of the WAYUP training department, told us all the details.
What Mentors Do
Our mentors serve as a bridge between the student and the educational program. They answer topic-related questions, clarify unclear points, check homework, and provide feedback. A mentor is also responsible for maintaining student motivation and mindset.
A mentor helps digest the program and turn abstract concepts into something concrete. They have personal experience and can easily share examples, real-life cases, secret tricks, and steer you in the right direction.
Having a mentor speeds up the student’s journey toward their professional goals. It’s ongoing support—both educational and emotional. Students can sometimes feel stuck, demotivated, or unsure of their work quality. This is when a mentor steps in to work through issues together and provide detailed, personalized feedback. Our mentors don’t just check off assignments; they break them down, suggest improvements, and highlight strong points. It's not just about pointing out mistakes—it's about explaining them and showing how to fix them.
At this stage, you’ll start to discover your strengths and signature style. Mentors often help students find their unique approach and guide them through the tough journey of becoming a professional. Learn more about our learning process and student outcomes in the online premiere “WAYUP Open Day”.
About WAYUP Mentors
Currently, the WAYUP team has 14 mentors working across various programs. One mentor handles a maximum of 30 students at a time—this number allows for quality attention and timely support.
Each mentor has a specific focus in the program they guide. They must help students grasp the subject and answer all related questions—even those beyond the core material. Only someone truly knowledgeable can explain the topic clearly and simply.
We have very high standards for mentor selection. We evaluate the mentor’s knowledge and its relevance—only practicing professionals are considered. Deep expertise is a must. But so are communication skills and the willingness to help others. We choose people who genuinely enjoy guiding students and take pride in their role. This passion is felt in everything they do.
In addition to top-level skills, mentors must also have successful freelance experience. We prepare students for real-world freelancing, and practical know-how is crucial. These mentors can answer pressing questions like what to do after finishing the course and how to start earning with your new skills. You’ll learn how to apply your knowledge, what’s in demand now, and how to land clients.
Who Are They?
Many mentors are WAYUP graduates who gained freelance experience after completing their training. That’s a huge plus—they know exactly what students need because they’ve been in their shoes. They’re familiar with our community philosophy and understand how to guide students through the process.
This approach is highly motivating. You realize you’re not the first to take this path. Others did it, succeeded, and became pros. You see your own potential and get actionable advice to reach it—maybe even faster since you won’t be paving the way from scratch.
Nikita Polishchuk, now the head of WAYUP’s education department, was once a student here. Even while taking the program, he was eager to try the mentor role. That came later, after gaining freelance experience. Eventually, he was invited to join the team. And now he’s right where he always dreamed of being.
The mentorship team shares the platform’s core values. For them, the work is meaningful beyond just salary—it’s about enjoying the process, feeling the friendly, family-like atmosphere, and being proud of students reaching their goals.
Mentorship in 2021
One mentor’s job is to help students progress without burnout or stress. That became especially relevant during the lockdown period. This year, our team has a strategic goal: increase the number of students who complete the program.
In stressful situations, students may lose motivation or feel overwhelmed. That’s when the mentor’s role becomes essential—helping them keep going and finish what they started. The mentor reminds them of their original “why” and helps solve issues as they arise. So don’t be afraid to start the program—you won’t be alone.
A mentor is someone you can talk to about your learning journey without pressure. They’ll support and guide you every step of the way. Experience it yourself in our legendary free course “Web Designer: Explosive Start”!
