For a college student, a mentor can be an invaluable guide, helping to bridge the gap between academic life and future career, and navigating the complexities of young adulthood.

1. Academic Guidance & Success:

1. Study Strategies: Advice on effective study habits, time management, and navigating challenging courses.

2. Course Selection: Insights into choosing majors, minors, and specific courses that align with career goals.

3. Research Opportunities: Guidance on how to find and participate in research projects.

2. Career Exploration & Preparation:

1. Industry Insights: Real-world perspectives on various career paths, industries, and specific roles that lectures alone can't provide.

2. Job Search Skills: Help with resume building, interview techniques, networking strategies, and navigating job boards.

3. Internship Opportunities: Connections to or advice on securing valuable internships that boost experience.

4. Skill Development: Identification of critical skills needed in their desired field and advice on how to acquire them (e.g., specific software, soft skills like communication or teamwork).

3. Personal Growth & Confidence:

1. Goal Setting: Assistance in setting realistic and achievable academic and career goals.

2. Problem-Solving: A sounding board for academic or personal challenges, offering perspective and coping strategies.

3. Increased Self-Awareness: Gaining insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and passions.

4. Boosted Confidence: Having a trusted advisor who believes in their potential can significantly empower students.

5. Time Management: Learning to balance academic demands, extracurriculars, and personal life.

4. Networking & Professional Connections:

1. Expanded Network: Introduction to professionals in their field of interest, opening doors to future opportunities.

2. Networking Etiquette: Learning how to effectively build and maintain professional relationships.

5. Navigating College Life:

1. Transition Support: Guidance for new students adapting to college life.

2. Resource Navigation: Help finding and utilizing campus resources (e.g., career services, tutoring centers, counseling).

3. Ethical Decision-Making: Discussion on academic integrity, professional ethics, and responsible behavior.

6. Reduced Stress & Anxiety: Having a non-judgmental confidant can alleviate stress and anxiety about future uncertainties and current challenges.

In essence, a mentor provides a roadmap, a cheerleading squad, and a safety net, helping college students to maximize their academic experience and confidently step into their professional lives.

1. Mentorship Program runs from 10/1/2025-6/1/2026.

2. Mentorship applications will open 8/1/2025-9/15/2025 

3. Mentees must review and sign a mentorship agreement once application has been reviewed and approved.

4. Mentees must join a mandatory zoom meeting for introduction to mentor, review mentorship agreement jointly, and establish a communication cadence.

5. Quarterly check-ins will be administered via surveys

6. Mentees to contact Mentorship advisor immediately should any issues arise

If you have any questions, please contact: Sylvia Pizarroso at sylvia.pizarroso@ociesbdc.org