Mentoring Relationships
Mentoring is… a relationship between two people in which the abilities and experience of the mentor strive to meet the needs of the mentee, and the mentee enjoys the benefits of having a mentor. Mentors work to provide guidance, support and help to the mentee to learn about the paralegal profession and generally navigate the paralegal coursework and paralegal profession.
What is a mentee? (First Year Paralegal Students)
As a first year paralegal student, you are in a new role with many uncertainties. It takes time to learn and adjust to new routines and expectations. You have an opportunity to connect with a paralegal, attorney, legal professional or 2nd-year paralegal student who have experience or recently experienced what you are facing now.
Ideas of how mentoring can be helpful…
- Share accomplishments
- Gain interpersonal skills and self confidence
- Identify strategies for success in classes
- Develop personally and professionally
- Assist in creating a network of support systems which will supply crucial information about resources and programs
- Support one another with challenges you may encounter
- Share learning experiences (testing, focus, study skills, time management…)
What is a mentor? (Paralegal, Attorney, Legal Professional or 2nd-Year Students w/18 credits & legal research completed)
A mentor shares legal knowledge, wisdom, and experience with new paralegal students. He/she acts as a guide by listening, offering support and encouragement but does not serve as an advocate between student and professor or administration.
Why would I want to be a mentor?
You may encounter mentoring in your future career as a paralegal, attorney or legal professional. By being exposed to mentoring, you will gain insight into the value of support, empowerment, and satisfaction within the paralegal and legal profession. Mentoring is an opportunity to offer guidance and provide valid experience and assistance for students to develop and learn while entering the legal field.
What are the expectations of mentoring?
- Clarifying expectations with each other and making a contract regarding the mentoring relationship
- On-going communication with your mentor/mentee of your choice (live meetings, e-mail, phone) throughout the semester
- Committing to the relationship for two consecutive semesters
- Preparing for mentoring relationships in your professional legal role
- Observing confidentiality strictly between mentor and mentee
Recommendations for student mentors and mentees
If you would like to be a mentor or a student mentee, please contact the Paralegal Program Director