Professors Who Became Mentors

by Lourdes Gonzalez

Throughout my time in college I have truly appreciated the great professors that have been able to prepare me for life after it. Professors can become more than just teachers that bypass our lives during this period of time. It is of great benefit that we as young students and future professionals connect with our professors on a level that goes beyond merely teacher and student.

When a professor becomes a student’s mentor he/she is able to teach the student more about the career in which they will soon embark in, teaching them beyond what is learned in the classroom. As well, they are able to give them one-on-one educational, career and life advice and support.

Remember that they are the professionals and have so much guidance to offer. Before becoming professors they were clocking in countless hours in the field that you too will belong to soon enough. Making a connection with a professor allows you to have a lifelong relationship with them, as they become role models and lifelong friends. These professionals can not only give you great career advice, but they are also able to share their own network with you, as they introduce you to new people and opportunities.

Public Relations professor and PRSSA professional advisor, Jennifer Newton agrees that students receive great value from their professors turned mentors.

Newton says, “Mentors are a key support system for any professional at any level of their career. They are a sounding board for questions, a source of advice and a reality check when you become overwhelmed in your career.” Newton advises that students find those professors whom they connect with and admire and begin to build relationships with them.

Most professors are willing to take on mentorship roles, they are here to help prepare us so, it is never too late for students to begin talking to their professors and creating these lifelong connections. In a long run they will benefit highly from them. Besides gaining a mentor to help them along the way, they will have gained a friend forever.