I once had a thought about creating something like a sub-forum for young mentors to create threads in and have discussions like this. I envisioned it to be something along this line - where students who have graduated from high school and moved on into helping on the mentor side of things could share thoughts and concerns. Young mentors can often be supported and listened to or advised in areas of concern for them by the mentors who have been around the block a few times can understand. Of course, if you are Al Skierkiewicz, your block has become trenched.
On teams, I think there are volunteer roles. Those roles are valuable and have to do with a lot of the organizational side of things or of providing something for the team. Our lead mentor may get out the word that he or the team needs a volunteer to help set up our sponsor reception or pick up something on the way to the shop. That's a little different than a mentor who works with the team directly, helping the team prepare for competition in specific areas. It is true that mentors can have a much bigger impact on the team and on individuals than in the specific area they work in. That is the mark of a true mentor - their impact. They can't force the impact, it just happens. I came across a post that Andy Baker made a while back. He was talking about mentors learning to empower others. I'll try to find that post - it was most excellent and may help you as you mull this over.
Be back in a little while.
Ok, found
it. I like the lessons in this post that Andy offers to us. He teaches us to listen to the wisdom of other teams like our HoF team, FRC 191, and that mentors grow and develop just as students do and just as the FRC program does and has done.
After reading it, ask yourself a couple of questions:
1. do you hope to inspire and encourage the students you are working with?
2. do you hope to empower them by helping them develop skills and deepen their understanding of the importance of doing their job well?
Jane