Examples of Mentoring Activities:

Students were asked to list out all the occupations they have been interested in. We listed these occupations on the board, then asked them questions about some of these occupations, such as training required to get the job, earnings and job outlook, nature of work etc. For example, students were asked what is the difference between civil and mechanical engineering? With these questions in mind, students were asked to research occupations they are interested or curious about with the internet resource Occupational Outlook Handbook provided by US department of labor, and share their findings with the group at the next session. Ying Liang

We played pictionary with words that dealt with the students future (e.g., college, career, high school, finances). Cliff Juhlke

Students filled out a worksheet, which had three questions. What would you do if you were president for one year? What would you do if you won a million dollars? What would you do if you could do anything you wanted? Answers ranged widely, but students gave me a renewed sense of purpose through their thoughtfulness and compassion. For instance, several students said they would end world hunger, and end homelessness if they were president. Other students gave equally wonderful answers, like clean up their neighborhoods, or buy a home. I was truly impressed. Roderick Dailey

Students created a "Road map of their futures".In this exercise students established 4 year markers (high school, college, masters, Ph.D. and/or career). The purpose of this map was to help the students keep an overview of the tools they will need to be successful at each level. Maurice Minefee

Students filled out a questionnaire with two questions. What are some reasons you would choose to attend college? What are some reasons you would not choose to attend college? There answers gave some meaningful insight into the passions, desires, and motivating factors behind the students college dreams, or opportunities for development. Roderick Dailey