What is academic mentoring and why do you need it?
Ananya, a master’s student in organizational and social psychology at LSE, writes about her experiences finding mentorship. She highlights the confidence and support she gained through her mentor during her studies. Her mentor not only helped her find valuable resources to improve her skills as a psychologist but also provided constructive feedback on her areas for improvement in writing and well-being.
It’s not only Ananya; there are thousands of stories from individuals who have had positive experiences with mentorship in their lives. You might be wondering whether it is always the university’s responsibility to provide mentors or if students can reach out to them directly. The answer is that not all universities offer mentorship programs on campus, and students often need to seek out appropriate mentors themselves.
What research says about Academic Mentorship?
Numerous studies have highlighted the positive impact of academic mentoring on success and overall job satisfaction. In a review study, researchers identified the positive effects of mentoring on students, including improvements in behavioral, attitudinal, health-related, relational, motivational, and career outcomes. However, the research also emphasized the importance of the commitment and interpersonal skills of both the mentor and mentee in fostering a successful mentor-mentee relationship.
How do you approach the right mentor?
First, identify the relevant experience and expertise you need as you begin your search. Once you have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for, consider reaching out to potential mentors, such as professors, seniors, former colleagues, managers, or industry professionals related to your field.
When you contact a mentor, don’t just ask for help in a vague manner. Send a respectful message through social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, specifying your needs. If someone responds positively, that’s great; if not, keep searching. Once you receive a positive response, schedule calls and meetings. Build rapport and trust, and express gratitude for their time and effort. Remember to ask relevant and thoughtful questions and take notes on their important advice. If you feel that this mentor isn’t meeting your needs, don’t hesitate to seek out others.
What is the ultimate goal of academic mentoring?
Always focus on your personal growth and learning; this is the primary reason you need mentorship. You can explore mentoring in various areas based on your immediate requirements, whether it relates to your work, resources, or networking.
Have you ever found yourself in need of academic mentoring, perhaps during a challenging course or when deciding on your career path? Did you have the opportunity to seek help from a mentor, advisor, or even a peer whose guidance made a significant impact on your academic journey? How did their support influence you? Write in the comment section.