Why Every College Student Needs A Mentor

Did you know that about half of the college students in the US struggle with loneliness? Or that first generation college students are more prone to feeling lonely? Many people have been taught by parents, school teachers and society that getting a degree can be vital in approaching the achievement of our goals and dreams. However, most of us were never told about all the hardships that come with getting a degree, which sometimes include loneliness. So, how can students deal with these overwhelming feelings, especially when they’re living far from home and family? While there are many available counseling services at most universities, there is also another effective way to cope with them – finding a great college mentor.

Who is a college mentor and how can he or she help you succeed at school? 

A college mentor can be a student who is older than you, a professor or even an alumnus. Many schools have mentoring programs that are designed to help newcomers feel welcome and have more guidance. One of the biggest advantages of having a mentor is the comfort of knowing that there is someone who has gone down a similar road and can help you handle stressful situations. In fact, it has been reported that mentoring reduces “depression symptoms” and increases “social acceptance, academic attitudes and grades.” 

What will a College Mentor do? 

Mentor responsibilities are not solely limited to helping students manage stressful situations. Their role is very broad, yet very vital. Here are some other impactful ways college mentors can transform students’ lives:

1. They can be true confidence-boosters. Sometimes, college students can be trapped in the thought pattern that no matter how much they do, their endeavors are not enough. College mentors can give practical feedback to the students and put them on the right track. Since they have gone through a similar path, they are aware of what it takes to graduate from college successfully and land a good job. 
2. Your college mentor can be a great resource for building a powerful network. Getting good grades at school is not the only thing you need to get your dream job. In this day and age, the term the “hidden market,” is used to describe jobs that aren’t advertised online. Some employers have stopped posting jobs because they are more interested in hiring employees through a trustworthy referral. Networking can really be the difference in getting your foot in the door. The value of having someone to help you network is huge, as at least 60% of all jobs are found through networking. 
3. College mentors will be there to support you even after you graduate. For many students, figuring out life after graduation can be very overwhelming and some may even feel like they’re facing a post-graduation crisis of sorts. Your college mentor can help you cope with this stress by providing support and perspective as you adapt to a new phase of life.

    

Despite all the advantages that come with having a college mentor, only a small percentage of undergraduate students actually get mentors. Many students simply aren’t aware of about this excellent resource that is available to them. If your university does not have a mentor program, open a LinkedIn account instead and use it to help you find your school alumni and identify a potential mentor that you can develop a relationship with.

Yes, college life presents difficulties, but knowing that so many people have been in the same boat and have not only survived but succeeded should give you encouragement. Don’t take on the stress of the college journey alone.  Seeking and accepting help from a mentor can be the extra tool to help you have more success and less stress in college. Are you interested in learning new universities then checkout nursing schools in North Carolina.