One of the things that surprises me is that a lot of people tend to shy away from being a mentor because they think it will be something very time-consuming and consist of lots of planning.
It doesn't have to be a formal program with structured timelines (It can be if that is what you want it to be). Sometimes, mentorship is just a quick text, a coffee chat or a conversation after a panel where someone says, "Hey, I've been where you are - How can I help?"
Some of the most meaningful guidance I've received came from people who probably didn't even realize they were mentoring me. I try to pay it forward the same way - -by showing up, being available and offering whatever support I can. If it's someone who might have a question about their upcoming CTS Exam or sharing what worked (and what didn't) on a project on campus - that's the basics of mentoring.
If you've ever thought about becoming a mentor but felt like you didn't have time, didn't know enough or didn't have a "mentoring plan" - I promise you, you do!
Mentorship starts with listening and being willing to share.
The fastest way to grow your own knowledge is to share it. When you explain a concept or material to someone else, you're not just helping them - you're reinforcing it for yourself.
"While we teach, we learn" - Seneca