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Sparks Mentorship Program : Mentor
The Sparks Mentorship Program is an innovative initiative that pairs retired and currently active professionals with college students to facilitate meaningful exchanges of knowledge and advice. By drawing on the extensive experience of its mentors, the program aims to unlock the potential of the next generation, creating a link between academic theory and practical experience in the professional world. This service is offered free of charge, driven solely by the our desire to contribute to the community.
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Our program is listed on the Handshake platform at 130+ colleges nationwide.
We are currently mentoring students at these colleges and welcome students from any U.S. college!
Mentor Benefits
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Personal Fulfillment: Many mentors find joy in giving back, knowing they're making a positive impact on the next generation.
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Developing Leadership and Coaching Skills: Mentoring hones leadership and coaching abilities, which are valuable for personal and professional growth.
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Staying Current with Emerging Trends: Mentors often learn about new technologies, trends, and perspectives that younger generations bring, keeping them informed and engaged.
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Strengthened Professional Network: Mentoring can introduce mentors to new networks, including other mentors, faculty, and young professionals, expanding their professional reach.
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Legacy and Influence: Mentors leave a legacy by shaping future leaders, influencing industries, and fostering a culture of giving back.
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Fresh Perspectives: Engaging with students offers mentors new ways of thinking, problem-solving, and viewing the world, which can be refreshing and inspiring.
Mentor Eligibility
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Retired and active professionals from diverse industries.
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Minimum of 5 years of professional experience.
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Minimum of 5 years in a management / leadership role (or strong experience developing others).
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Passion for teaching and sharing knowledge.
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College graduate or other college experience (can relate to the college experience).
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Commitment to supporting and guiding college students.
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Time commitment is 1 hour per month for 12 months (not including any prep time)
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Exceptions made on case-by -case basis
Mentor Responsibilities
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Goal Setting: Guide students in identifying and establishing clear personal and professional development objectives aligned with their career aspirations.
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Knowledge Sharing: Share practical professional experience and industry insights to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application.
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Resource Direction: Connect students with appropriate resources, tools, and learning materials to develop proficiency in areas that align with their goals.
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Monthly Commitment: Dedicate approximately 1.5 hours per month for 12 months including prep time to maintain consistent mentorship engagement and relationship building.
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Professional Development Guidance: Provide insights on leadership skills, management practices, and professional growth opportunities based on real-world experience.
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Network Introduction: Facilitate connections to professional networks, industry contacts, and career opportunities when appropriate.
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Growth Accountability: Support and monitor student progress toward their academic and professional goals throughout the mentorship period.
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Adaptive Mentoring: Customize mentorship approach to meet individual student needs while maintaining program standards and expectations.
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Legacy Building: Focus on long-term impact by shaping future professionals and promoting a culture of mentorship and knowledge sharing.
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Monthly Reporting: Submit a brief one minute meeting update after each session including when you met, duration of meeting, and next scheduled meeting date to support effective program management.
Student Eligibility
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Undergraduate college students attending a US college
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Graduating high school seniors through rising college seniors may apply (mentorship is one year)
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A commitment to personal growth and academic achievement
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Commitment to learning from experienced professionals
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Time commitment is 1 hour per month for 12 months
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Exceptions may be made
Mentorship Standards
In alignment with the above program benefits, we have implemented a routine checklist of topics for all mentors to consider including within their mentorships. While each student will have unique goals and needs, the below checklist will be consistently applied and discussed across all mentorships.
Important note about the above standards: our mentors are not required to know all of these topics! While it is crucial for a mentor to possess strong fundamental experience and skills, their main role is to guide students towards the resources necessary to achieve proficiency in the chosen areas that align with their goals. Our standards provide a comprehensive set of resources for each topic listed above.