Mentoring

This information is designed to provide an introduction to mentoring at Arizona State University and a gateway to mentoring resources.

The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.
~ Benjamin Disraeli

What is mentoring?

• Mentoring is a process whereby an individual offers help, guidance, advice and support to facilitate the learning or development of another person.
• This process can occur as part of the development of a personal relationship between individuals or in brief encounters over a short period of time.

Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.
~ John C. Crosby

What is a mentor?*

A mentor typically performs multiple roles, beyond that of an advisor. A mentor makes a special and often personal investment in the career development of a protégé. Often, a mentor is also:

• A teacher—helping the protégé develop critical skills and hone unique talents.
• A role model—providing an example and modeling best practices.
• A friend—providing crucial psychosocial support and encouragement.

* Adapted from the National Academy of Science's "Advisor, Teacher, Role Model, Friend: On being a mentor to students in science and engineering."