Delta Links Mentoring Program
– Rules of the Road —
These “Rules of the Road” are intended to lay out some parameters so that both Alumni Mentors and Active Mentees will have a positive, satisfying and rewarding mentoring experience.
Mentor/Mentee relationships can be:
- Of short duration, e.g. the Active has a question, seeks advice and the mentor can quickly provide an answer that addresses the issue OR
- A longer term supportive relationship
Process for Finding a Mentor:
- Peruse the Delta Links Directory
- Request one or more mentors by emailing the alum directly if their contact information is in their profile or by filling out the Mentor Selection Form to request contact information or get help with a specific request. The Active will be notified if the mentor accepts their request. The Mentor will then reach out to the Active to set up the first meeting
- If the Mentor is not available or already has a match, the Mentorship Coordinator, Terry Petracca, will work with the Active to find another mentor to serve as the placement. Contact Terry Here.
Guidelines For Mentors
- Listen and learn what are the issues for which the Active seeks help
- Be cognizant and respectful of the differences in experience of today’s Actives versus your own experiences. Acknowledge that those of different races, genders, and orientations may experience things differently. It’s okay to not have an answer. You may choose to use your network to reach out and find experienced folks who do, or simply acknowledge that folks of different races, genders, cultures, and orientations have differing experiences and empathize and listen.
- Share knowledge and experiences that may be of help to the Active
Guidelines For Mentees
- Listen and learn. While alumni can never ‘walk in your shoes’, nonetheless, there is much which can be learned from their life lessons and experiences.
- Be on time for appointments with your mentor. Cancel appointments with at least 24 hours notice.
- If you wish to discontinue a mentoring relationship, it is OK to do so. Communicate this to your mentor politely, respectfully.
- Reach out to the steering committee at CornellDeltaLinks@gmail.com, the Mentorship Coordinator, or Lifetime Membership Chair Emily Levin with questions or to resolve issues. We are here to create an inclusive program where you feel welcome!