Mentorship 101

By Adisa Hargett-Robinson

Feb 2, 2018

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No one got anywhere without the help of someone else. I mean, where would Daniel, be without Mr. Miyagi? He wouldn't be the Karate Kid; he probably wouldn't be with Ali; he may have gotten a beat down from John Kreese. But Mr. Miyagi, great mentor that he was, stepped in and taught Daniel everything he needed to know. The lesson here is everyone needs a Mr. Miyagi mentor in their lives. Mentors are helpful during your transition, and the relationship can often last much longer. Like any relationship, it doesn't form overnight. Here's what you need to know. (AP)

Frozen’s Elsa not only sang everyone’s favorite song to sing in the shower - sorry, we just couldn't "Let It Go" - she also reminded people that relationships take time to develop. What's true for marriages is true for mentorships. You can’t just pick a mentor out of thin air. You must give some careful thought to what your needs are and who would be a good match to help you with your goals. You need to take time to evaluate what you really want and how a mentor can help you get there. (AP)

Everyone knows Eminem is one of this generation’s top rappers, but don’t forget how he got there: with a lot of help from his mentor, Dr. Dre. He even wrote the song “I Need a Doctor” about their relationship. Once you have decided on your mentor, it's time to make moves. Decide on a schedule with your mentor - whether it be weekly phone calls, monthly dinners or daily emails - and stick with it. Talk to your mentor frequently and keep track of where you started, where you want to be and where you have gotten so far. Set a time frame for where you want the relationship to go, and make sure its realistic. Nothing happens overnight. (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Everyone's favorite teacher, Mr. Feeny, from the show Boy Meets World, was a big part of his students' lives. His role wasn't limited to the walls of the classroom. This relationship spanned seven beautiful years on screen (and forever in our memories). Once your relationship is well-defined and you talk with your mentor regularly, you can form a relationship with honesty, trust and longevity. (Jack Plunkett/Invision/AP)

About Adisa Hargett-Robinson

Adisa is a multimedia journalist covering Military Life, transition to civilian life and veteran education

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