Expo Project Advice
The following list was created from a combination of Mentor guidelines from the Graduate School of Education at the University of California, Berkeley, tips from “The Scientist” and from our own years of experience. They are intended to help strengthen your relationship with your student.
- Discuss your commitment level with your student at the beginning of your relationship so you understand each other’s expectations. Be aware that while we try to match you as best as possible on your commitment levels, it is possible that you and your student(s) will have different expectations. Please contact NWABR if you feel you need to be re-matched.
- Establish realistic expectations for the student’s project
- Establish a warm, genuine and open relationship that encourages learning.
- Think of yourself as a teacher/professional. It is not necessary, or appropriate to be the student’s best friend.
- Encourage the student to research possible career paths.
- Encourage the student to talk by asking open ended questions.
- Let students make their own decisions; assist by listing options .
- Focus on student’s strengths and potential rather than limitations .
- Let your students know the best time and place to reach you .
- Inform students of any changes in your contact information .
- Keep the atmosphere informal . (A little fun mixed with learning goes a long way).
- Be a good listener . Show genuine interest in what your student has to say.
- Encourage your student to ask question which he/she might be afraid to ask in the classroom.
- Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know something. Use the opportunity to show your student how to access and use resources that contain answers.
- Be patient. Progress may sometimes be slow but try not to get discouraged. Look for small signs of progress. Contact the student’s teacher if you need to discuss the student’s progress rate.
- Be sure to check with your affiliated institution regarding regulations to student visits before having the student visit your place of work.
- Offer your student guidance in the form of suggested resources.
- When giving advice, keep the student’s best interest in mind even though sometimes they may clash with your own.
- Share what you do with the student to help them better understand what your work is truly like.
- Be aware that some students face advisor/mentor challenges due to issues such as lack of internet access, cell phones, and limited transportation. Please be considerate of your student’s individual situation and realize these extra challenges.
- Be sure you are clear on your meeting point when arranging to meet with your student. Some advisors have multiple office locations so be sure you agree on the location.
- Be sure to direct any concerns or misunderstandings directly with your student. If the situation is still not resolved or you do not feel comfortable addressing the student directly, please contact the student’s teacher to help resolve the issue. If the teacher is unable to provide help you may contact NWABR and we will reassign you as necessary.
- Most importantly, have fun!
|
