Mentoring and Shadowing
Shadowing and mentoring are great ways to get an early start on your career exploration.
Shadowing/Informational Interviews
Shadowing gives you the opportunity to learn about a career that interests you by accompanying a professional through a typical workday. You can observe the professional making decisions, engaging colleagues and pursuing professional goals. In some cases, the experience may involve an informational interview on campus, virtually or at the workplace where you can ask questions about the career and gain insight into whether it is the right fit for your career path.
You may schedule many job shadows and informational interviews. Before you arrive at the workplace or begin your interview, research your field of interest on PathwayU and the industry on Handshake and compile a list of questions. Jot down your thoughts about the profession before and after your day of shadowing, which will provide a foundation for later reflection.
Mentoring
Mentoring involves a one-on-one relationship between a student (protégé) and a professional (mentor) who can provide advice, direction and encouragement. Students typically meet with their mentors once a month to discuss career goals and interests. Students and mentors agree on a timetable and method that works for them.
To participate as a mentor or a protégé, start by submitting the appropriate forms. Students and mentors can choose to participate in the program fall term, spring term or both terms when they submit their profile forms. Participants attend orientation workshops to learn about different types of career exploration and individual responsibilities. Once the student and mentor have begun their monthly meetings, mentors will submit check-ins to the Mentoring Director when needed.
For more information contact Director, Career Education, Julie Nosal at (630) 617-3440, [email protected].