Information for Mentees

The mentoring process is guided by the mentee, who is responsible for the direction which the mentoring takes. Mentors can be male or female, depending on what is most appropriate to each individual case.

As a mentee, you will gain the most from the process if you:

  • Know what you want to achieve through the partnership
  • Demonstrate enthusiasm and interest
  • Are respectful of the Mentor’s experience and position, but not uncritically
  • Listen carefully and take notes as appropriate
  • Demonstrate integrity and openness
  • Use frequent questions to get the Mentor to explain in more detail, where appropriate
  • Commit to regular meetings and are reliable

Mentees should be aware of the time commitment involved and should carefully consider whether they can commit to the Programme at this time.

Benefits

Mentees will benefit from:

  • Shared research skills and knowledge
  • Having a sounding board to bounce ideas off
  • A potential role model at a more senior level
  • Support and advice in making important decisions

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the mentee include:

  • Being proactive about the Mentoring Programme
  • Accepting responsibility for your own goals, decisions and actions
  • Actively participating in mentoring activities
  • Appreciating the professional commitment of Mentors
  • Being flexible
  • Maintaining confidentiality (personal and professional)
  • Keeping appointments and providing notice if arrangements with Mentors have to be                        postponed due to unforeseen circumstances

N.B. Information adapted from materials produced by  the Centre for Women in Science & Engineering Research (WiSER), Trinity College Dublin.