When we join college, the expectations we have from ourselves undergoes a sea change. Our future goals have to fit into the scheme of things. Now, the question is how to prepare for the present course, which we have chosen; how to plan our tasks to be successful; how to handle our relationships with seniors, faculty, peers and parents.
Balancing classes, an internship, homework and social activities can be tough. So when the topic of finding a mentor comes up, many college students shrug off the idea because we think there is not enough time.
Do I need a mentor?
Having a good mentor can be extremely helpful when you are looking for career advice, job opportunities or even just a role model.
If we have the ground rules clearly set, decide the expectations from each other and work out the time schedules, what are the priority areas in which you need support.
Areas for mentorship:
1) Study management
2) Exam management
3) Internships
4) Job opportunities,
5) Professional networking
6) Academic references
7) Professional references
Giving your mentor a detailed description of what you would like them to help you with is often the best method to go about this.
Where can you find the right mentor?
Students can source the right mentor from among
1) Professors in the college
2) The college assigned mentors
3) External professional links
4) Bosses or supervisors from internships
5) Alumni database
6) Professional organisations
— kalpana@acl-india.in