The Value of Mentorship in College

Mark Smith
2 min readSep 1, 2020

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The college experience serves as the turning point in the lives of many individuals who are seeking higher education. While pursuing a degree is often the most obvious way forward, it can still be easy to go astray or get lost during the journey. To navigate college it can be incredibly helpful to have a mentor who will guide one’s path. Here is how they can help.

They Are a Source of Refuel

The exams and lectures won’t stop, so losing steam every now and then is an inevitable part of the deal. There is always another due date on the rise and it can be difficult to get out of this slump, causing many students to give up on their studies or to settle for less than their true, full potential. Mentors have witnessed this scene play out time after time and will give the student the advice they need to turn things around, whether it is better time management tactics or a few simple words of encouragement.

They Will Assist With Future Plans

It isn’t uncommon for a student to make it to their graduation date without having their next step in mind or believe they have things figured out only to change their future plans at the very end. As embarrassing as this may sound aloud, mentors have heard it all and they know how to peel back the layers and discover one’s innate talents and passions. Under their guidance, students will find it easier to unscramble their thoughts. These mentors will be of help when formulating a plan of action that falls in line with a student’s unique skill set and heart’s desire.

They Know Who To Call

Most mentors are not only armed with both knowledge and expertise, but they tend to have a full contact list of important people in every industry. This gives their mentees a leg up when they need a letter of recommendation or someone to arrange a favor. As the mentor witnesses their pupil’s development, they will gladly provide the necessary contacts to make their lives much easier.

Proper mentorship can make the difference between a college dropout and a successful business professional living out their every desire. In fact, aside from their studies, the mentor-student bond is arguably the most valuable thing that one can gain from their entire college experience.

Originally published on Mark Smith CIU’s website.

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Mark Smith

Dr. Mark A. Smith, has committed his life to the advancement of the gospel through Christian higher education at CIU. marksmithciu.com