Having a mentor might not be the norm for most young people, but a mentor-mentee relationship could help students map out and kickstart their future by learning from someone more knowledgeable.
A mentor could be anyone with experience in, among other things, examinations, getting into top universities, or a chosen field of study. They provide guidance and advice on the best course of action for students to grow and achieve their goals.
A mentee is anyone looking for guidance in any aspect of their lives that someone more experienced could assist with. Mentees should be committed to learning and doing their best to achieve their goals following the advice they receive.
Here are some of the benefits of having a mentor.
1. Individualised learning styles and goal-setting
Mentors work closely to identify their mentees’ strengths, shortcomings, learning needs and objectives. Both should focus on establishing steps and methods to reach their goals.
As mentors work one-on-one or within a small, controlled group, they are able to monitor and improve students’ learning styles and outcomes. They can suggest specific skill sets mentees should refine, ensuring they are ready to achieve positive end results from their mentorship.
Despite the support and guidance mentors offer, mentees are still responsible for choosing their own paths, building strong work ethics, and taking the initiative to achieve their goals.
2. Maximising potential
An internship experience offers students a competitive edge and a platform to put their knowledge to the test. They are able to explore ways of expanding their thought processes and perspectives.
Mentors can coach them to work calmly under pressure, formulate strategies to make decisions, and work effectively by managing their time.
Mentors can also challenge mentees to expect the unexpected, provide them with an avenue for growth, and help them see themselves in a new light.
When it comes to tertiary education, mentors can offer mentees valuable insights based on their own experiences, from the process of enrolling into a university to living life on campus.
3. Achieving personal growth
Mentors can serve as cheerleaders by offering support, and empowering those under their guidance to have a positive attitude towards their studies, work and life.
A mentee can pick up soft skills such as communication, analytical thinking, empathy, selflessness, responsibility and more. By learning and adding these to their repertoire, they have the added advantage of possessing well-rounded skills that are valuable in today’s workforce.
Furthermore, the willingness to be mentored demonstrates that one is passionate about what one wants to achieve.
The mentor-mentee relationship is built on mutual trust and respect. Mentors inspire and look forward to their students’ achievements and, in return, mentees can one day pay it forward by becoming mentors themselves.
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