Professional Mentoring Program

Professional Mentoring Program

Purpose

The Computer Science Department at East Carolina University offers the mentoring program to pair up selected student mentees with professional mentors. This program facilitates the professional growth of computer science students by providing advice from experienced mentors, helping them better prepare for their long-term career goals.

Structure

The professional mentoring program is a semester-long program running in both the fall and spring semesters. Mentor/Mentee(s) pairings are made in August and January of each year. Depending on preferences, mentors may guide a single student or mentor a group of students concurrently.

Responsibilities of Mentors and Mentees

Mentor

• Commit to regular meetings and follow-up communication with the mentee for the duration of the program.
• Help mentees in setting and achieving their career and professional development goals.
• Guide mentees to understand industry expectations and potential career paths.
• Provide constructive feedback on the mentee’s skills and competencies.
• Be a role model and support system, instilling confidence in the mentee about their future in the computer science industry.

The specific responsibilities of a mentor may vary. Mentors are expected to initiate communication with the mentee(s) and discuss the specifics of their relationship.

If a mentor wishes to withdraw, they must consult with the mentoring program coordinator.

Mentee

• Commit to regular meetings and follow-up communication with your mentor for the duration of the program.
• Be proactive about contacting your mentor and scheduling meetings.
• Be respectful of your mentor’s time.
• Be professional in all communication with your mentor.
• Prepare for meetings and come up with an agenda.
• Be receptive to the career and professional advice shared by your mentor.
• Participate in a closure process at the end of the program by submitting a document outlining your progress toward your goals.

If a mentee wishes to withdraw, they must consult with the mentoring program coordinator.

If you would like to become a mentee, please fill out the form. Please pay attention to the due date on the form!

Contact the Mentoring Program Coordinators (Jennifer Andriot & Alex Vilkomir) for more information.