The power of mentorship: 6 reasons why it’s crucial 

College life is a transformative phase where students embark on a journey of personal growth and academic development. Amidst the sea of opportunities and challenges in the college campus , mentoring classes emerge as a beacon of support and guidance, playing a crucial role in shaping a student’s college experience. These specialised classes, led by experienced mentors, offer a range of benefits that foster a conducive learning environment and contribute to students’ overall success.

 Personalised Guidance: Mentoring classes provide personalised attention, enabling mentors to understand each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. “This one-on-one approach empowers mentors to tailor their support and advice, helping students navigate academic challenges, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions about their career paths,” emphasises Apeejay alumnus Alok Jha, who is currently working as Graphic Designer with Instahyre.

Academic Excellence: With their expertise and experience, mentors can offer valuable insights on study techniques, time management, and exam preparation. They can identify areas where students may be struggling and provide targeted assistance, boosting academic performance, leading to unlocking new potential while instilling confidence in their abilities.

Emotional Support: College life can be overwhelming for many students, especially those away from home for the first time. Mentoring classes create a safe space for students to discuss their concerns and anxieties, offering emotional support and encouragement. This nurturing environment fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation, promoting mental well-being.

 Career Guidance: Choosing the right career path is a critical decision that can shape a student’s future. Simran Bawa, an alumna of Apeejay College of Fine Arts in Jalandhar, explains how mentorship is the most crucial part of college life as it opens up new and better options for students to explore career paths.

“As college students, we often think that the path we have chosen is the best for us, but only a good mentor can guide you to what’s even better for you by recognising your potential and disclosing programmes to you that cater to your interests and capabilities. I shall forever remain thankful to my mentors, Dr Navjot S Deol, Ms Monica Sekhon and Dr Supreet Talwar at ACFA, as they thoroughly guided me and opened my vision to broader prospects for my career. Had it not been for them, I might have settled for less. But they made me believe in myself and motivated me to chase my dreams fearlessly,” says Simran.

Networking Opportunities: Mentoring classes often bring together students from diverse backgrounds and fields of study. This networking opportunity allows students to build meaningful connections, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects. The mentor’s network and connections can also open doors to internships, workshops, and other valuable experiences.  Pooja Mandal, an MBA student with Apeejay School of Management emphasises, “Mentoring classes during college not only benefit students in the immediate term, but also have lasting impacts. They create a strong foundation for continuous learning and growth beyond the college years. Many students maintain connections with their mentors even after completing their education. This ongoing relationship provides a valuable source of guidance, advice, and industry insights throughout their careers. The mentor’s expertise becomes a lifelong resource, aiding students in making informed decisions, adapting to changing circumstances, and achieving long-term professional success, often extending well beyond a decade after their initial interaction in college.”

Skill Development: Beyond academic subjects, mentors can help students develop essential life skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are invaluable in the professional world and contribute to holistic personal growth.

As you read there are several benefits of mentoring.  In a nutshell, mentoring has the power to positively impact students while leading to their holistic development.