1. Finding and Being a Mentor
Rachel O’Brien
Allegheny College
Preparing for an Academic Career
Workshop, July 2013

2. Definition of a mentor a wise guide someone who
helps you strategically
build knowledge
a presence in your life for at least one or more years

3. Who might serve as a mentor?
a parent
another family member
a religious leader (e.g. your priest, rabbi, imam)
a coach
an academic advisor (grad or undergrad)
a teacher
a graduate student and/or lab manager

4. What constitutes mentoring?
It can occur on a formal or informal basis
You can have as many mentors as facets in your professional or personal life

5. What constitutes mentoring?
The Process
The Communication
The Outcomes

6. What constitutes mentoring?
The Process
Identification of the mentor/mentee
Define objectives of the work
Meet regularly in person

7. What constitutes mentoring?
The Communication
Regular, substantive, not rushed
Goes beyond “updates”
Follow through on promises (both sides)
Confidential

8. What constitutes mentoring?
The Outcomes
Confidence
Increased skills and/or knowledge
Increased productivity

9. What does a mentor do?
Introduces the mentee to others—helps expand his/her personal network
Answers questions (strategic>>basic)
Provides advice (with an eye towards “next steps” and areas that could be strengthened)

10. Nature of the relationship
It can be cordial, personal, enjoyable, forgettable and/or fun…but it is not a friendship!
Confidential
Needs to be ended or redirected ASAP if it’s not working