Student Success Coaches

Our Student Success Coaches (SSCs) are here to help you thrive academically, personally and professionally – find out how to meet your Coach and how they can help you reach your potential. 

Our team of friendly Coaches are here for you – they come with an understanding of the challenges students typically face and will guide you through the development of new skills, knowledge and aspirations. 

What our coaches offer

  • Personalised coaching: individual learning plans and agreements to maximise your potential.
  • Career pathway discovery: working alongside our Employability and Careers team, we can get you on track towards your dream career.
  • Tailored wellbeing strategies: we collaborate with the Centre for Wellbeing to advise you on lifestyle changes that could aid your studies.
  • Building resilience and personal effectiveness: our workshops and drop-ins will be shaped to give you the skills you need to thrive.
  • Connections to other services and resources: we know who to turn to when you need more specialist support or want to approach self-help in your own time. 

Your Coach may also proactively contact you if we notice that your engagement or attendance levels are dropping, or if one of your academics wants to refer you for a chat. There is no need to worry if this happens – we are here to help you get back on track! 

Who is eligible to access a Coach? 

Our Coaches form part of a pilot scheme being run by the University and therefore are only currently supporting the following students during the 2025/26 academic year: 

  • Level 4 / first year undergraduate students in the School of Engineering
  • Level 4 / first year undergraduate students in Accounting and Finance. 

If you are not in one of these groups but would like to access support, please contact your Personal Tutor. 

Meet and contact our Coaches

Meekam K Mgbenwelu (MBA, MSc, BA Hons) – School of Engineering

Hi, I’m Meekam K. Mgbenwelu (MBA, MSc, BA Hons), a Student Success Coach here at Surrey. My role is to support students especially those in their first year to feel confident, settled, and able to thrive both academically and personally. 

I’m a Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and a Certified Mental Health First Aider, and I’m passionate about helping students build resilience, unlock their potential, and make the most of their time at Surrey. 

With over 20 years of leadership experience across education, public, and non-profit sectors in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa, I’m excited to work alongside you as you shape your own Surrey journey. 
 
How to contact me

Drop ins and bookable appointments are available for students throughout the week.


 
Drop-in sessions Bookable appointments
Monday 12 - 1pm 3 - 5pm
Tuesday 12 - 1pm 1 - 3pm
Wednesday 1 - 2pm N/A
Thursday 1 - 2pm 1 - 3pm
Friday 12 - 1pm 2 - 4pm

Book an appointment online now

Mark van der Enden – Accounting and Finance

Hi there! I am Mark, the Student Success Coach for Finance & Accounting. I’ve been at Surrey for more than four years, having previously worked in the University’s Student Success team. 

My background is in Archaeology and Ancient History, and I have worked in student support roles across UK Higher Education Institutions. 

I am absolutely passionate about supporting students throughout their journey with us and helping you not only achieve all your academic aspirations but also having an amazing student experience. 

How to contact me

Drop ins and bookable appointments are available for students throughout the week.


 
Drop-in sessions Bookable appointments
Monday 3 - 4pm 11am - 1pm
Tuesday 11am - 12pm 2 - 4pm
Wednesday 3 - 4pm 11am - 1pm
Thursday 12 - 1pm 2 - 4pm
Friday 3 - 4pm 11am - 1pm

Book an appointment online now

Elle Wright - Accounting & Finance and School of Engineering

Hi, I’m Elle! I’m excited be part of our Surrey community and start this journey alongside you. 

My background is in supporting students as they transition into university life and providing coaching to ensure you get the most out of your time here. I’m really looking forward to getting to know you and supporting you to develop your skills, confidence, and sense of purpose, so you can thrive at university and beyond! 

How to contact me

To be confirmed - please contact Meekam or Mark