The Power of Mentoring

Discussion and Self-Reflection Questions

• William Seda says that at first, he did not open up to his mentor because he didn’t know him. What would it take for you to open up and receive support from a peer mentor?
• Desmond Bryan explains that the program “backs you up when you have fallen.” Can you think of a time when you (or a friend) has gone off track? Who has been there for you? What type of person would you want to help you when you face challenges?

Activity

Read with your Peer Leaders the following excerpt about the origination of the term “mentor.” (Or make copies and use the following page as a hand out.) Then discuss and/or answer these questions as a group or individually.

• What characteristics and adjectives describe an ideal mentor? Some examples might include trustworthy, responsible, good listener.
• What are some of the ways in which a “mentee” benefits from being mentored? (Some examples might be more confidence, more motivation, getting help with academics.)
• What are some of the ways in which a mentor benefits from his or her role? (Better social skills, feeling good about helping others, learning to better understand others).
• Now ask your Peer Leaders to consider and list their skills and talents. How can they best help someone else?

Download the Lesson Plan for full activity and discussion questions.