The Professional Mentor Program, coordinated by the University of Memphis Office of Student Leadership and Involvement, matches a select group of highly motivated students with community leaders. More than 35 students and 25 professionals participated in the Fall 2011 session of the Professional Mentor Program!

The program aims to pair students with a mentor who works in a field that corresponds with the student’s career interests. The program also provides an opportunity for networking and exploring leadership education. The goal of the Professional Mentor Program is to prepare students to be future leaders through leadership development, build community within the city of Memphis, and facilitate the development of a support network with community leaders.

In addition to the individual pairings, participants are placed in clusters with others who have similar professions so there is a shared experience and collaboration among 6-8 pairs. The clustering serves a two-fold purpose:

• It increases the available network for all mentors and protégés.
• It ensures everyone will have a role at our monthly meetings, in case a mentor or protégé is unable to attend.

The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement is always looking for vibrant professionals to volunteer their time as mentors with the program. The monthly meetings take place on Fridays from 12:30-1:30. Spring 2012 meetings are scheduled for February 17^th, March 16^th, and April 20^th.  At these meetings, the SLI staff provides a guided educational component, as well as a complimentary lunch. Program advisors highly recommend that all pairs meet outside of the monthly meetings as their schedules allow and provide some thoughts on beneficial ways to use those times. In summary, requirements are as follows:

• One semester commitment
• Regular communication between Mentor/Protégé
• Attend Friday sessions
• Discuss meeting topics and their professional relevance

Recommendations for Mentor/Protégé Relationship:

• One on one informal meetings
• Mentor sets aside a day for protégés to job shadow*
• Mentor conduct mock interview with protégé for future interviews

* Job shadowing is recommended as a part of the program; however, in no way is it to be construed as employment. Students are not to be paid, receive course credit, or be compensated in any other manner as a part of the shadowing experience.

The Spring 2012 session will begin Friday, February 17^th, 2012 in the University Center. If you are interested in learning more or serving as a mentor in a future session, please contact:

Justin Lawhead
Associate Dean for Student Leadership and Involvement
Office of Student Leadership and Involvement
jtlawhed@memphis.edu
(901) 678-2094