As we all adjust to the tumultuous circumstances in which we find ourselves, we need each other now more than ever. With that being said, remaining connected to your mentors and mentees is crucial to maintaining the bonds you have worked towards throughout the year. Here are some ideas for connecting remotely while social distancing:
Students, send a quick email or text message to briefly check in with your mentor. Ask how they are doing, offer your own updates about school and schedule a virtual meeting.
Zoom, Skype and FaceTime are all excellent platforms for connecting "face-to-face" with your mentor. If easier, a phone call will also suffice in demonstrating your support during this period. Other online platforms include Google Duo, Whatsapp and LinkedIn.
Students, remember to be respectful. This is a time of tremendous change; be understanding of the unique circumstances of your mentor's new reality. Practice patience in your correspondence.
We hope you are all mindful of your health — physical, mental and emotional. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, email us here.
Raquel Tahvildari, exp. ’21
Alumni Mentor Program Student Committee Member
Alumni Scholars Club
April Challenge: Internships, Jobs and Research Opportunities
Students, during this time, we understand that the job or internship search process is going to look a bit different as it becomes more dependent on virtual tools. Regardless of what stage you are in — just starting your search, already applying and interviewing, or about to begin an internship, job or research opportunity — this is the time to seek the advice and expertise of your mentor.
Mentors, reach out to your student and ask where they are in this process and how you can help prepare them for a good first (virtual) impression. Your guidance could give them the edge they need to secure a great opportunity and succeed in that position.
"Lindsay has been such a lovely person to talk to, always there to give advice or to 'cheer me on' in anything and everything I've been doing. It almost feels like we've been best friends forever and I really value her as a person and am extremely grateful to have gotten to know her through this program. Despite living in Boston and having a demanding schedule, she has consistently taken time out of her day to talk to and support me." — Annika Tonn, first-year student majoring in pre-business economics.
Cope earned her bachelor of arts degree in communication studies and currently works at MIT Sloan School of Management as Assistant Director of Admissions Marketing.
Review Your Mentorship Agreement
With less then three months left in the academic year, this is a great opportunity to review and reassess your goals for your mentorship. We encourage you to look back at the Mentorship Agreement that you completed together at the beginning of the academic year. See how you have progressed with what you set out to accomplish together and refresh your goals for the remaining time to make the most of your mentorship.
