A hallmark of the University of Georgia School of Law's community is our Mentorship Program. Launched with the Class of 2019, the goal of the School of Law Mentorship Program is to match every incoming first-year law student with a mentorship team that consists of a faculty mentor, a peer mentor, a Career Development Office counselor, and a graduate/professional mentor.
As a member of the law school's Young Alumni/Alumnae Council, I have been challenged to find ways to be purposeful with this program. Thinking through my own feelings during this time in law school, inspired me to compile 10 simple ways I can engage with my own law student mentee. While there is a multitude of ways to connect with your mentee, I have found that sometimes the simplest things are the most meaningful.
As final exams approach, I share these 10 ideas with you in hopes that they inspire more ideas and a deeper sense of community among Law Dawgs everywhere.
10 Ideas to Engage with Your Law School Mentee
- Send a text or e-mail to your mentee simply checking in on them.
- Learn about your mentee's interests and introduce them to someone who works in their interested field.
- Schedule a Zoom coffee meeting to discuss anything other than law school.
- Mail your mentee a "final exam care package."
- Offer to have your mentee do a "mock interview" with a colleague or professional.
- Text your mentee a Starbucks or coffee gift card.
- Set monthly calendar reminders to "check-in" on your mentee.
- Ask to review their class schedule and give them pointers on professors or future courses.
- Offer to review their resume, cover letter, application materials, etc.
- Invite your mentee to participate in civic, firm or community events with you.
- Andrew Z. Smith (J.D.'17) is an Associate at the law firm Greenberg Traurig and based in their Atlanta office. (Written October 2020.)