Why Mentoring Matters and How Students Can Benefit
Do you have a mentor? If not, perhaps it’s time to find one. After all, mentoring doesn’t just have merits in the workplace. There are many ways that a student could benefit from connecting with a more experienced person in their field.
A mentor is someone with a specific set of skills and significant experience who agrees to provide free support to someone else. Mentoring can occur in a range of environments, although it’s commonly thought of as a workplace relationship in modern times. For example, in a business, a seasoned professional might take a new recruit under their wing and guide them through the induction process.
Why might a student need a mentor?
Studying is an amazing experience. However, it can also be a challenging one. A mentor can provide a student with personal support throughout the ups and downs of academia. This can reinforce a student’s sense of resilience.
As students learn new things, they may wish to discuss their ideas with someone who shares their interests. An experienced mentor can help them understand how the concepts they learn in the classroom will translate to the workplace.
Some students look for internship opportunities or part-time work to supplement their studies. Mentors in their field may be able to connect them to relevant opportunities that will help advance their careers.
When you have a mentor, you have someone to discuss your plans with. Because they understand your field of interest, they’ll be able to provide relevant and informed feedback.
During studies and the earliest years of a career, it can be difficult to decide which path to take. A mentor knows which questions to ask to encourage reflection, and they can support you to make smart decisions when it comes to your future.
As you learn and try new things, it’s understandable to have periods of insecurity. A mentor can share their experiences and reassure you about your progress.
You may think you don’t need a mentor. Maybe you already have plenty of friends to discuss your life plans with. However, getting to know someone beyond your typical social group can be a very enriching experience.
A mentor provides advice from an alternative perspective. People with different backgrounds and experiences bring their own unique wisdom, and through discussion, you may generate unique ideas together.
https://www.euruni.edu/blog/why-mentoring-matters-and-how-students-can-benefit/
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