You’re investing in each other’s success.
Brittany Wu
As you invest in someone else’s success, you will naturally invest in your own. As a mentor, you are either setting the foundation for or contributing to your mentee’s growth. Being a mentor means that you are investing in the path of another who will contribute to your own success along the way. You are learning how to give legitimate advice, while simultaneously being supportive. Above all else, you have the opportunity to listen to someone’s educational or career aspirations, and navigating how your strengths can help them achieve their goals. On a similar note, this process also allows you to reflect on your own path and see what kind of support you need. These transferable skills stretch beyond your education and career, and spill over into relationships that you have with others outside of your field.
You’re an active member in the community.
As a mentor, you are engaging with your community to make a local impact. You have the privilege of being a part of how your community influences its citizens and shape the lives of others. You have the opportunity to empower and build your mentee’s resilience. You are leveling the playing field for those who may not have had the luxury of a good education or plentiful resources — you are an agent of change who builds your mentee’s confidence and pathway to succeed. It is the kind of mutual relationship that fulfills you.
You’re defying the stereotype of poor mentors.
