Presenting and publishing with personal tutees to empower international student voices: the tutor’s reflections

There is an increasing need to adapt to the changing needs of a diverse student population (Walker, 2022). Enhancing international students’ experiences is one of the strategic drivers in the higher education sector, and the UKAT Association aims to develop personal tutors’ practice in the UK (UKAT, 2025). This presentation focused on a personal tutor’s reflections on a partnership with two international postgraduate tutees, aiming to improve support for international students through personal tutoring. The tutor co-presented with the tutees at an external conference and an internal event on the topic of supporting international students through personal tutoring, and they also collaborated in writing for publication. Through this collaboration, they developed resources that were incorporated into the personal tutoring handbook to enhance tutors’ support of international students.

This presentation critically examined the practical outcomes of this partnership, highlighting both its benefits and challenges. It showed the importance of collaborating with international students to build meaningful relationships with them and inform the development of resources that promote inclusivity. The initiative has practical implications for academics, personal tutors and learning developers, offering a model of partnership with their university students to co-create oral and written outputs. These collaborations can strengthen students’ sense of belonging and enhance their personal development. For international students adapting to a new learning culture, such initiatives foster inclusivity and create rewarding experiences for both students and staff. This approach empowers student voices and contributes to the design of resources that ensure equity and inclusivity in higher education.