Becoming a Mentor
A recent national report “Pathways to Prosperity” identifies specific ways to support student’s post high school success. The authors determined that creating multiple pathways, is essential to supporting every student.
The Met has been implementing the Pathways to Prosperity goals by supporting each student and family’s individual post high school goals since it opened in 1996. We work to create a pathway One Student at a Time, starting with LTIs and ending in a placement after high school. Experienced mentors are the key to student engagement, skill development, rigor. They are the foundation of the student’s pathway for success.
Learning Through Interest (LTI)
An LTI is the center of the Met curriculum. A student connects with a mentor at their current worksite. At the worksite, students take on real world tasks and projects under the supervision of a mentor. Back at school, the student works with their advisor building and reinforcing the skills and knowledge needed to complete those projects. The advisor also works with the mentor to support student work at the internship site.
“ I have several reasons why I chose to work with the Met. The most important, is that I feel obligated to do so. I remember how hard it was when I had no guidance in my life and how appreciative I was when I finally received some. I have had several unofficial “mentors” in my life. They continue to guide me and support me in what I do. The Met allows me to repay my debt to them. I feel privileged to work as a mentor and am continually thankful that the Met allows me to fill this important role in someone’s life.”
Dean Abanilla,Rhode Island School of Design
- Build a relationship with an adult mentor
- Learn the professional attitude that is necessary in today’s workplace
- Learn and practice 21st Century Skills
- Become engaged in his/her work and take ownership of that work
- Understand the importance of education and develop long term goals
- Obtain feedback and assessment by a current expert in their field
- Develop industry specific skills
Benefits for Mentors
- Have a fresh set of eyes look at your work and see new answers to old problems
- Catch the enthusiasm of a teenager who is excited about your work
- Have an extra set of hands to tackle the daily tasks at your organization
- Become a part of a state-wide network of professionals who mentor students
- Have a consistent connection with an educational professional to support the work and learning back at school and manage the internship
- Enjoy the personal rewards of encouraging teenagers who share your professional goals
Become a Mentor
Companies and organizations can participate in all levels of the LTI program and there are many other ways for employers to get involved in the process. Other LTI office programs include learning through volunteering, interest expeditions, in-school presentations and career day fair participation.
If you are interested in becoming a mentor, please call our Learning Through Interests Office at 401-752-2624 or complete this form: