Getting Started 

Some mentors share that getting started can be the hardest part!  Here are some good things to keep in mind as you begin the process:

• Set a good initial tone; be open & engaging
• Identify and share what you are each looking to gain from the relationship (broad goals)
• Challenge each other’s assumptions about the process
• Build trust
• Set clear expectations and ground rules
  • Discuss what happens if rules are not followed
  • How will you hold each other accountable?
  • Process (frequency/type of meetings)

Places to Meet & Things to Do:

• Starbucks, Java City
• Downtown Harrisonburg
• Edith J. Carrier Arboretum for a walk
• Get ice cream at Kline’s
• Work-out or play a game at UREC
• Go to a music or dance performance at the Forbes Center
• Go to a movie at Grafton-Stovall Theatre
• Volunteer in Harrisonburg
• Visit campus offices or attend organizational meetings
  • Career and Academic Planning
  • Office of Student Activities and Involvement
  • Community Service-Learning
• Do an activity or worksheet, see Other Resources

Commitments

Each mentor has committed to do the following:

Maintain confidentiality

• We do NOT expect that you will inform us if students self-disclose violations or are breaking policies.
• There is a limit to confidentiality— as a responsible employee you have a duty to share with us (or the Title IX office) if the student discloses any information regarding sexual misconduct. Disclosure of knowledge of abuse/neglect of a minor(s) or elder or talk of harm to self/others should be reported to OSARP. We are also required to keep statistics of domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking if the student choses to disclose this information.
• If you are unsure of how to handle a confidential issue, please consult OSARP.

Communicate

• Meet the student once a week for an hour.
• Let the coordinator know right away if the student is missing meetings or not communicating.
• Respond to requests for updates from the coordinator.

Engage

• Support and challenge the student through dialogue and activities.
• Provide students feedback about their thoughts and behaviors.
• Act as a resource and connection to other resources.
• Assist the student to reflect on and complete their mission statement and goals.

Resources

As part of the Mentor Experience Civic Learning Program, students must complete a personal mission statement and goals. Instructions for these activities are provided by the mentor. You'll find several resources below to assist your student in these requirements.

Resources for:

• Dimensions of Well-being
• Mission Statement Requirement
• Goal Requirement
• Other Activities & Resources

Questions?

For more ideas or questions, contact your coordinator.