MPA ALUMNI MENTOR PROGRAM: Student Mentee

What is a mentee? noun men·tee \men-ˈtē\: someone who is taught or given help and advice by a more experienced often older person; one who is being mentored

Characteristics of a Positive Mentoring Relationship  Mutual respect  Preparation  Commitment  Acceptance and flexibility  Honesty and direct communication  Some shared values  Trust

Program Overview

Who? Carolina MPA Alumni are matched with a current student with every attempt made to match participants who share common areas of interest and/or sector.

Why? The MPA Alumni Mentor Program is a professional development opportunity; it allows for current Carolina MPA students to learn and receive practical knowledge and wisdom from Carolina MPA alumni.

When?  As this is the pilot starting mid-year, the Mentor Program will run from January-August,  Going forward, however, the Program will begin in November and end in August of the following year.

Expectations? The minimum requirement of engagement with your mentor for this pilot year is three (3) regular conversations throughout the year. You can do more if this is agreeable to both parties. You, the mentee, are expected to initiate contact.  As you get underway, both you and your mentor must complete the Statement of Mutual Understanding and should discuss it, and your partnership. This will be help build a solid basis for your relationship.Statement of Mutual Understanding

The Meetings  You, the student mentee, should initiate both the completion of the Statement of Mutual Understanding and meetings throughout the year.  Meetings can be had in-person, by phone, or on the 2SG platform.  If you meet on the platform, know that additional support regarding how to access and use the platform will be sent to mentors. While you have had training on how to use the platform, if you need additional assistance, you can find a resource pdf here on how to create a meeting using your AdobeConnect room. resource pdf here

Conversation Starters  Tell me about your background…  Why did you choose the Carolina MPA?  Tell me about your experience as a student?  Tell me about your career progression and how you got there?  What are some of your interests? What are you passionate about?  What tips and words of wisdom do you have?  Anything you did career-related that you highly recommend?  Anything that you would change or do differently? Although these conversations are not meant to be job interviews, you may offer to send your resume to the mentor for feedback.

More Resources  ASAE Article – “How to be a good mentee”“How to be a good mentee”

Questions? Heather Duhart Director of Academic and Career Services,   (919) Jamarian Monroe Director of Student Affairs and Academic Advising   (919) Brandon Foster Alumni and Constituent Relations Officer   (919)

Thank You! Be sure to thank your mentor for investing time and helping support MPA students!