Fellows Mentoring Program

Florida State University is initiating a supplementary mentoring program to enhance the educational experience and career preparation of graduate degree fellowship holders. This program is intended to expand the range of advice available to fellows and to facilitate their early engagement with issues of academic and professional success. The Graduate Fellows Mentoring Program is open to all FSU students who currently hold Auzenne, College Teaching, Gubernatorial, McKnight, Presidential, University or Wilson fellowships. Students indicate their interest in the program by completing a Mentoring Participation Request form. Blackboard log-in required.

Who are the mentors?

The Mentoring Program will usually propose one advanced graduate student and one faculty or professional staff member as mentors for each participating fellow. These proposed mentors are chosen from a pool developed by the Graduate School working in conjunction with graduate program directors across campus. Mentors are from different degree programs than the mentees, and are proposed taking account of research or professional interests. Proposed mentors may reflect demographic considerations or other factors, when the fellow requests this.

What is mentoring?

It is voluntary, involving only students and mentors who choose to take part. It is a team effort, helping fellows to reach beyond their supervisory committees to others who may have useful insights to share with them (although the various members of the team may not know each other, nor interact). Mentors can often offer a semi-detached perspective on research and/or teaching activities, career development and balancing home with school. Mentoring does not replace the University's first line teaching and career planning services. It is oriented to different issues than the usual focus of the student's supervisory committee, which remains the primary source of advice. It is not a substitute for professional counseling.

How do mentees and mentors interact?

"Mentoring Pairs" agree to meet at least three times each semester; at least once each term to discuss a pre-set agenda. Mentors also may observe their mentees performing professionally (e.g. practice talks), or the mentoring pair may attend campus events together. In situations where the mentor practices a profession that the mentee intends to practice (often teaching and research), the mentor will try to provide the mentee with insights into his or her own work life.

How long does the mentoring relationship last?

As a voluntary relationship, mentoring lasts as long as the two participants want it to last. In most cases the pair will interact for at least a year, but they may choose to continue the relationship for the length of degree studies or beyond.

How do participants become involved?

Graduate fellows seeking mentors should complete the Mentoring Participation Request form. Blackboard log-in required. Faculty, A&P staff, alumni and senior graduate students interested in serving as mentors should complete a Fellows Mentoring Pool Questionnaire. Blackboard log-in required.

How do I get further information?

Inquiries may be directed to the Graduate School at (850) 644-3501.