What is Mentoring?
The term and meaning of ‘mentoring’ apparently derives from ancient Greece; the word “mentoring” comes from the Greek word for ‘enduring’. Although the stories vary, around 1500 BC King Odysseus was off to fight the Trojan War and needed to entrust the upbringing of his son, Telemachus, to a wise man who would teach and raise the young boy.The wise man would help the boy learn what was right and just, listen to his questions, and generally assist him to become a person of value and integrity. This wise man’s name was ‘Mentor’. The role of the modern mentor is little different from Mentor’s role 3500 years ago.
Mentors are guides, friends, cheerleaders, coaches, listeners, role models and listening boards.
Who benefits from mentoring?
College Student Mentors:
- Gain personal satisfaction
- Develop patience, insight, and understanding
- Learn lessons in citizenship through work with the community
- May experience a cultural, social, or economic background different from their own
- Improve leadership and communication skills
- Gain experience for future careers
College Student Mentees:
- Receive academic help
- Learn study skills
- Improve social skills
- Have the attention of another caring individual
- Discover new options and opportunities
- Set goals for the future
Colleges and Universities:
- Form stronger ties with their communities
- Build better citizens through responsibility and service
- Support cross-cultural learning
- Retain students by providing meaningful involvement
