Mentoring 102

10 Mentorship Dos for College and Career Planning

Connect & Relate

  • Be Relatable
    Think back to when you were in high school. Use those experiences to relate to mentees and show that you understand where they’re coming from.

  • Listen Actively
    Sometimes, all they need is someone to listen. Be that person.

  • Share Personal Stories
    Talk about your career planning journey (ex: trade school, work, college, etc.) – the ups, the downs, and the lessons learned.

Build Momentum

  • Set Goals Together
    Setting goals can provide valuable guidance and accountability toward achieving them.

  • Celebrate All the Wins
    Remember to celebrate all the wins, big or small, as they contribute to the mentee’s journey and success.

Guide & Support

  • Provide Resources
    Always have a list of websites, books, videos, or tools that you found helpful. Sharing is caring!

  • Stay Current
    Stay updated on the latest developments in your field!

  • Embrace Uncertainties
    Embracing uncertainties can lead to unexpected growth and discovery.

  • Encourage Exploration
    Remind them that it’s okay to be unsure. Exploring different careers can lead them to finding the right path.

  • Encourage Questions
    There are never too many questions here. The sky’s the limit!

How to Use in Sessions

1. Be Relatable
  1. College: "In high school, I was so stressed about picking the right college major. I kept changing my mind. If you're feeling unsure, believe me, I've been there and it's okay to be unsure."
  2. Professional Pathways: "I remember being in high school and feeling like college wasn't for me. It was tough explaining that to my friends who were all college-bound. If you're thinking about a different path, I can relate."
2. Listen Actively
  1. College: "When you talk about the pressure of SATs, I get it. I was there not long ago, stressing over every question. Tell me more about what's worrying you."
  2. Professional Pathways: "I remember feeling overwhelmed with choosing a career right after high school. I'm here to listen to your thoughts and concerns, no matter what they are."
3. Share Personal Stories
  1. College: "I chose my major because I loved biology in high school. But halfway through, I realized I was more passionate about literature. It's okay to change your mind based on what you discover about yourself."
  2. Professional Pathways: "I jumped into a plumbing apprenticeship right after high school. I was nervous at first, but now I know it was the right choice. It's all about finding what fits you best."
4. Provide Resources
  1. College: "I've got some websites that really helped me understand financial aid and scholarships. I'll share them with you. They made the whole college application process a lot clearer for me."
  2. Professional Pathways: "There are some great online resources I used to learn about all my career options. Let me share those with you; they might help highlight something that intersts you."
5. Stay Current
  1. College: "I'm always reading about the latest trends in college education and job markets. For example, there are new emerging fields in tech that are really exciting. I can share what I know."
  2. Professional Pathways: "In my field, things are always evolving. Like, there's a growing demand in renewable energy trades. Keeping up with these trends can give you a good sense of where opportunities are."
6. Embrace Uncertainties
  1. College: "It's okay to be unsure about your future. I remember feeling undecided between two majors. Those moments are actually great for exploring different interests."
  2. Professional Pathways: "It’s completely normal to be uncertain about your next steps after high school. I experienced the same feelings and found that looking into various paths, beyond the traditional college route, was incredibly valuable in discovering what truly excited and motivated me."
7. Encourage Exploration
  1. College: "Don't worry if you're not sure what to major in. I explored a few different subjects in my first year before I found my passion. It's all part of the college experience."
  2. Professional Pathways: "Exploring different trades or job shadows can be really eye-opening. I wasn't sure at first, but trying different things led me to a career I love."
8. Encourage Questions
  1. College: "Feel free to ask me anything about college life, from dorms to study tips. When I was applying, I had so many questions, so I understand."
  2. Professional Pathways: "Got questions about trade school, starting work right after high school, taking a gap year, the military, or first responders? Ask away. I had a lot of questions too when I started my journey.
9. Set Goals Together
  1. College: "Let's make a goal-setting map for your college journey. I did something similar, and it helped me stay on track with my studies and extracurriculars."
  2. Professional Pathways: "Setting clear goals was key for me, especially when I started my apprenticeship. Let's work on a plan that outlines your steps and goals."
10. Celebrate all the Wins
  1. College: "I'm here to support you, whether it's celebrating your acceptance into college or acing your exams. Your success is important to me."
  2. Professional Pathways: "Every step you take towards your career, big or small, is worth celebrating. I'm here to cheer you on, just like I appreciated the support when I started my career.

10 Mentorship "Don'ts" for College and Career Planning

Avoid Assumptions

  • Ask, Don’t Assume
    You’re incredible, but nothing beats a genuine chat. Let curiosity lead the way.

  • Don’t Be Bossy
    Guide, don’t dictate. Remember, it’s their adventure and your aim is to be a valued and trusted guide.

  • Don’t Fall Into “Been There, Done That”
    Relate around shared experiences, but remember every person’s journey is unique. Encourage their exploration.

Avoid Overloading

  • Don’t Forget the Follow-ups
    A little “Hey, how did it go?” can mean so much.

  • Don’t Make It About You
    Share your story, but keep the focus on helping them carve their own.

  • Don’t Overwhelm Them
    Break things into steps. Take it slow so they don’t feel buried in information.

Avoid Missed Connections

  • Don’t Show Up Unprepared
    Check the mentee’s profile before your session. Like bringing an umbrella, it’s better to have it and not need it.

  • Don’t Just Wait for Your Turn to Talk
    Actively listen and engage in meaningful dialogue with your mentee.

  • Don’t Rain on Their Parade
    Give honest guidance while supporting aspirations. Even if a path wasn’t right for you, it could be exactly what your mentee needs.

  • Don’t Use One-Size-Fits-All Advice
    Tailor your advice to fit their needs, goals, and personality.

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