It has been two years now since I started interviewing professionals about their work and advice for students, and over time I’ve started to see a theme. Mentors have played a huge role in guiding successful professionals to where they are today. For many students and young professionals, finding a mentor, especially one in the right career field, can be easier said than done.
I’m hoping to make this process a little easier for everyone. With help from the talented Jeff Siarto, we’ve created a simple form to help students find mentors who can offer them career guidance—this might include reviewing a resume or portfolio, discussing potential career opportunities, narrowing in on a field of interest or any other kind of advice.
The rules are simple. Whether you’re a student or professional, fill out the form to help us find you a fitting mentor or mentee. Let us know you if prefer someone in your own city so that you can meet in person, or if you are willing to communicate any questions or concerns through email, phone calls, Skype, chat, etc. Students, if you’re interested in finding a mentor in a particular city where you’re considering moving after school (New York, Chicago, etc.), add this information under "Additional Comments." Once a connection is made, you’ll receive a goal sheet to get started. Plan to check in at least once a month (again, this might be a simple email, or it could be an in-person meeting).
We’re launching this as a "beta" through the end of the year, so feel free to send any feedback or comments to allie.osmar@gmail.com.
Finally, spread the word! If you know any students who could use some guidance or professionals who want to make a difference, send them over to Mentorship Connection. The more people we can get involved, the more valuable this project will become.
Tags: mentor
Holly
You know, a former colleague of mine Elisabeth designed and launched a mentoring program a few years ago to connect up-and-coming writers and journalists with experienced authors. It was a great success online, and she eventually took it offline as a program to connect young women in detention centers with mentors. Currently, she is taking a break from her non-profit work to focus on finishing school, but she might have stories or information to share about her experience designing a mentoring program. You can contact her through her LinkedIn profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethwilhelm
Allie Osmar
Awesome, what a great story. I’ll definitely get in touch with her. Thanks Holly!
Stephanie Russell
This is amazing, Allie! I already signed up, so hook me up with a movie poster (key art) designer, will you? Seriously, I am very impressed. I will definitely plug this as much as I can. It’s such a great idea.
Cathy
I think this is a great idea… I have posted it to my Facebook page and will plug it as much as I can. I have signed up for it and do look forward to a mentor match. I agree with the difficulty of finding someone to be a mentor. I thought it would be something easy to just ask… but I do wonder how to approach the subject and then when you do, how exactly do you make use of that relationship?!
I guess that’s where I get lost… hopefully this program will help.
Thanks!
Zack
Great idea. I certainly benefited from my mentor, and was lucky to have a professor set up the relationship. It’s not always that easy, so I hope your service can help students bridge that gap. It would be great to hear some success stories at some point down the line. Be sure to keep us posted.
Nita
I am a 10 year professional in Social Services and looking to branch out more into administration/management roles. I am interested in gaining a mentor. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to start. Most places/articles are geared toward college students. Thank you for any assistance.