Definition

Responsibilities

Tips and Tools

What is a Mentor?

A mentor is a wise and trusted advisor and helper to an inexperienced person. Daloz (1990, 223) stated that effective mentorship is similar to "guiding the student on a journey at the end of which the student is a different and more accomplished person. In a formal learning situation, mentoring functions can be understood as providing support, challenge, and vision."  

This relationship, although it does require a time commitment, serves to benefit the student, professor, and University. 

What is Mentoring?

• A structured one-to-one relationship or partnership that focuses on the needs of the mentored participant.

• A supportive relationship sustained over a period of time, usually between a novice and an expert.

A Mentoring Relationship

• Fosters caring and supportive relationships

• Encourages individuals to develop to their full potential

• Helps an individual to develop his/her vision for the future

• Helps develop active community partnerships

• Breaks down old barriers

What are the Benefits of Mentoring?

• Motivation increases among students

• Students can become more independent

• Critical thinking improves

• Students develop an increased connection to their professors, field of study, and Penn State

• Students become better educated, better qualified graduates

• Students are more likely to become future mentors