University Mentoring System

Introduction:

Mentorship is considered as a very important component of higher education institutions. At Saurashtra University, we promote the excellence in education by exploration, understanding, explanation and transformation of the world through teaching, learning, research and scholarly activities as well as services to local, state, national and global communities.

More than 120 faculty provide mentoring and advising for approximately 2,000 students of 29 departments pursuing their masters or doctorate studies.

There are many ways in which mentoring can be defined. Of which here we are accepting the definition, which appropriately describes the University Mentoring System.

“A professional relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) assists another (the mentee) in developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the mentee’s professional and personal growth”

Expectations from Both Mentor and Mentee

  • Respect confidences and trust each other.
  • Discover common ground and respect your differences.
  • Be available as and when required with prior planning

Expectations from Mentee

  • Identify realistic goals. Discuss your needs and expectations with your mentor; think about what you want out of the program prior to each meeting.
  • Negotiate ideas and activities with your mentor.
  • Be committed to carrying out agreed-upon goals; follow through.
  • Be receptive to suggestions and feedback.
  • Keep mentor informed of progress.
  • Contact mentor if unable to attend scheduled meetings in a timely manner.
  • Realize that having a mentor is a privilege and work hard to take advantage of the opportunity.
  • Contact program staff if there is a concern with the mentor relationship.

Accordingly following is the list of expectations from a mentor

  • Listening actively with interest, holding the focus on the mentee’s agenda
  • Managing the framework of the mentoring sessions, while encouraging the mentee to take responsibility for the content
  • Taking appropriate approaches for betterment of the mentee
  • Helping the mentee to frame long term objectives instead of short term interests and see holistic image
  • Helping a mentee to have a different point of view for the situation and explain possible perspectives
  • Taking an interest in the mentee's progress

A mentee is expected to be:

  • Responsible for his or her development, rather than expecting sole help from his/her mentor.
  • Committed, attending planned sessions and taking the actions suggested by with the mentor.
  • Punctual and respecting agreed rules.
  • Transparent in behaviour with his/her mentor.