Introduction to Coffee Chat: What to Expect
What’s a coffee chat?
A coffee chat is an informal meeting or conversation, often held over a cup of coffee, between two or more people. Although it doesn’t necessarily involve actual coffee, the term is commonly used in professional settings for networking, informational interviews, mentoring, or casual discussions about career development, projects, or industry insights. The relaxed environment of a coffee chat makes it easier for participants to engage in open and candid conversations.
As a mentor, who exactly am I helping through this project?
As a mentor, you will be talking to students who want to learn more about their dream colleges or majors. We believe that simply sharing your college experiences, cultural insights, and providing some pointers on what makes a good school applicant should be sufficient. Of course, the students may come up with other questions they have in mind, but treat this as a casual college talk with your younger sibling rather than a formal consulting experience.
As a mentee, can I expect a professional consulting experience from REACH chats?
While REACH can be an excellent opportunity for networking, seeking advice, or gaining insights, our platform is intentionally designed to be more casual and less structured than formal consulting sessions. Discussions during coffee chats may be more spontaneous and less focused on delivering specific outcomes or deliverables. The relaxed environment alleviates pressure on mentors, fostering genuine sharing of their college experiences. However, it’s important to note that this approach may not be conducive to the in-depth analysis or strategic planning often associated with consulting engagements.
Embrace the REACH Experience!
Now that you know what to expect from REACH, relax and enjoy this opportunity to connect with passionate people from around the world. Whether you are a mentor or a mentee, we hope this experience helps you grow and contributes to a warmer, more proactive global community. Together, let’s make equal access to mentorship and advice a reality for all students, and take a step closer to a kinder, more inclusive humanity.
