In today’s world of streaming, social media, and artificial intelligence, one timeless tool continues to change lives—mentoring. While platforms and trends evolve rapidly, the power of meaningful, one-on-one human connection remains essential—especially in higher education.
Mentoring has long been a personal passion of mine. I’ve been fortunate to serve as both a mentee—learning from exceptional administrators, students, and community leaders—and a mentor to students, peers, and young professionals. Some individuals I didn’t even know I was mentoring have later told me, “I saw how you handled that,” or “Something you said made all the difference.” That’s the quiet power of mentoring—it creates ripple effects far beyond the moment.
While I can't cover every facet of mentoring in a single article, I want to share three core principles—backed by research and real-world experience—that colleges should consider when developing or enhancing mentoring programs. When implemented intentionally, these strategies support student retention, confidence, and engagement.
1. Pre-College Programs Build Belonging Before Day One
Mentoring begins before the first day of class. Whether through summer bridge programs, orientation, or admitted student days, early connections matter. These pre-college experiences help students build confidence, find community, and understand how to access resources.
Programs shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all. A student working full-time may benefit most from a one-day orientation, while another might thrive in a multi-week bridge experience. What matters most is that students meet staff, faculty, and peers before the semester begins. It reduces anxiety, boosts preparedness, and sets a tone for proactive engagement.
This kind of mentoring isn’t just about academic readiness—it’s about social and emotional readiness. Students who participate in early programs often start the semester more confident and better connected, which increases persistence throughout the year.
