3 Reasons Why You Should Be a PSS Mentor/Mentee

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:15:15 -0400

We asked three people who have been in the program itself what they loved most about being a Mentor or Mentee:

1. The mentoring program has been a great opportunity to connect outside of my organization, getting to know folks I would normally not have opportunity to meet. I’ve always looked forward to the mentor/mentee meetups. A chance to step outside of the routine day-to-day. It’s like a breath of fresh air – a safe space to share knowledge, gain knowledge, and build a long-term professional friendship.

2. I have been a mentee for the past two years, ever since starting my first full-time position here at UMBC. Through the program I have had two mentors at two different points in their career that have been nothing but helpful and a listening ear to my experience. Through the PSS Mentoring Program I have been able to have meaningful conversations with established professionals that offer a space to reflect on my career as it develops and hear their perspectives as they continue to grow. I recommend this experience to any new professional (new to UMBC or otherwise) as it has allowed me to have space away from my regular office and home life to reflect and set goals for myself both in my position and career but while still having these conversations with folks who understand and are connected to the UMBC community. Love this program!

3. I have enjoyed being part of the PSS Mentoring Program because it has allowed me to connect with people in other offices on campus who have different experiences. I like being able to work them with, get advice, and grow my network.

The application is now LIVE for the 2022-2023 PSS Mentoring Program with a deadline of Monday, May 2nd. The new cohort of the program will kick off in July 2022 and run through June 2023. New exempt staff members (at UMBC less than 3 years) are encouraged to apply to be mentees, and all exempt staff members (at UMBC for 3 years or longer) are encouraged to apply to be mentors! Contact Laila Shishineh (lailams@umbc.edu) directly with questions.

APPLY HERE