How Do You Find a Mentor As A Student?

Students often hear that finding a mentor can be a transformative experience – with guidance, support, and valuable insight that can carry through your whole life – but how exactly do you find one?

The right mentor will be a personal choice, but there are steps you can take to reach out to potential options and work towards the goal, including by working with our programs at National Society of High School Scholars!

Why Students Should Have Mentors

While some people may already be looking for a mentor, we often see students ask if they need a mentor at all. The truth is you will get out of a mentorship what you put into it, so here are some reasons you may be motivated to find one.

• Guidance and Advice: A mentor can provide direction on academic and career paths, helping you make informed decisions.

• Networking Opportunities: Mentors can connect you with industry professionals, expanding your network.

• Personal Growth: Beyond academics and career advice, mentors can help you develop soft skills like communication, leadership, and resilience.

• Accountability and Encouragement: Having someone to check in with regularly can keep you motivated and focused on your goals.

If these are a good enough reason to keep going, here are some steps to take.

1. Identify Your Goals and Needs

The first step in finding a mentor is understanding what you want our of the relationship. Are you seeking guidance on a specific academic field, career advice, or personal development? Knowing what you want will help you identify the right mentor. Ask yourself:

• What are my academic and career aspirations?

•  What skills or areas do I need help with?

• What type of mentorship am I looking for—formal or informal?

By clarifying your goals, you’ll be better positioned to find a mentor who aligns with your needs.

2. Leverage School Resources

Many schools and universities have mentorship programs for students that connect them with alumni or professionals in their fields of interest. Contact your school's career services, academic departments, or student organizations to inquire about mentorship opportunities. Some schools also have dedicated mentorship platforms where students can connect with alumni mentors!

3. Join Professional Organizations

Professional organizations and societies provide structured mentorship programs that pair students with experienced professionals. NSHSS offers various leadership programs that include mentorship opportunities for members. For example, the NSHSS Ambassador Program and the NSHSS Scholar's Day events provide a platform for students to connect with mentors, gain leadership skills, and engage with a community of like-minded peers.

By becoming a member of NSHSS, you gain access to a network of professionals and leaders eager to mentor and guide you on your academic and professional journey.

4. Attend Networking Events and Conferences

Attending networking events, workshops, and conferences related to your field of interest is another excellent way to find a mentor. These events provide opportunities to meet potential mentors face-to-face and build genuine connections. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and express your interest in finding a mentor. Many professionals are more than willing to mentor enthusiastic students genuinely interested in their field!

5. Utilize Online Platforms

In the digital age, finding a mentor doesn’t have to be limited to in-person connections. Online platforms like LinkedIn, MentorCity, and NSHSS’s member portal can be powerful tools for finding student mentors. Join groups or forums related to your field of interest, engage in discussions, and connect with professionals with similar career paths or interests. Be sure to personalize your connection requests by briefly introducing yourself and why you’re reaching out!

6. Reach Out to Professors and Alumni

Don’t overlook the mentors right in front of you—your professors and alumni. Professors often have extensive networks in their fields and can offer valuable guidance. Similarly, alumni who have walked the same path you’re on now can provide insights from their experiences. Most alumni are happy to give back by mentoring current students, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can also connect with alumni through your school's alumni network or NSHSS’s alumni network, where you can find mentors familiar with the challenges you face as a student.

Tips to Secure a Mentorship

Once you’ve talked with professionals that you feel are a good fit for you, you’ll want to keep the communications open to secure a mentorship. Here are some tips for taking the next step:

Be Proactive

Finding a mentor is not a passive process: you need to be proactive in your search and show genuine interest in potential mentors. When reaching out, express why you admire them and what you hope to gain from the mentorship. Be specific about how their experience aligns with your goals. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street—it's essential to show that you are committed to learning and growing.

Follow Up

Once you’ve connected, follow up with a thank-you email or message. If they express interest in mentoring you, arrange a meeting or a call to discuss your goals and how they can help you achieve them. Building a successful mentor-mentee relationship takes time and effort, so be patient, stay committed, and maintain regular communication.

Be Open to Informal Mentorship

Not all mentorships are formal. Sometimes, mentorship can happen organically through friendships, colleagues, or classmates. Be open to receiving guidance and learning from those around you. You never know when a meaningful mentorship relationship might develop naturally.

It’s Never Too Early for a Mentorship

Finding a mentor as a student may seem challenging, but with the right approach and resources, it becomes a manageable and rewarding process. Remember, mentorship is building relationships based on trust, respect, and mutual goals.

Organizations like NSHSS provide valuable platforms and programs to connect students with mentors, helping them grow academically, professionally, and personally. So, take the first step today—reach out, connect, and find the mentor who will help guide you on your journey to success!