Become A Mentor…
Thank you for your interest in becoming a mentor with MEERI. Our programs connect dedicated mentors like you with students, empowering them with the guidance and resources to excel.
This is an excellent volunteer opportunity where YOU share your expertise and lived experiences to support our students. To ensure a safe and effective experience for both our students and our mentors, we have a clear, step-by-step screening and onboarding process. This transparent journey is designed to help us get to know you better and prepare you for a rewarding partnership.
What We Look for in a Mentor
We seek mentors who have relevant expertise and knowledge within a science or engineering field and a great enthusiasm to share their knowledge with a learner. A mentor should also have the ability to give clear and honest feedback that uplifts and grows the learner while providing guidance that leads to the best learning outcomes. Your role as a mentor is to support students with the following:
Development and execution of a plan to complete a project.
Development of the final presentation.
Monitoring student progress to ensure the successful completion of projects.
Time Commitment
Your commitment is vital to the student's success, and participation for the full length of the program (currently 5-months maximum at 1.5hrs a month) is required.
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Your mentoring journey begins with our online Mentor Interest Form. This form is your chance to tell us about your background, professional experience, and personal interests. It helps us understand your commitment and motivation to mentor, which is crucial for making a strong and lasting match with a student. The information you provide helps us identify that you meet the program’s eligibility criteria and possess the skills needed to support a project-based program.
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After reviewing your form, a program coordinator will invite you to a structured interview conducted by at least two staff members. This is a valuable opportunity for us to connect with you on a personal level and learn more about your communication style and approach. We'll discuss what to expect from the mentoring role, including the importance of setting boundaries and being a flexible, supportive presence for your mentee. This conversation is a two-way street, and we encourage you to ask any questions you have about the program and our expectations.
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Your safety and the safety of our students are our highest priority. For this reason, all mentor candidates who successfully complete the interview will undergo a comprehensive background check.
Background Check: This process includes searches of national criminal records, sex offender registries, and child abuse registries. To support our program, we encourage you to cover the cost of the background check, which is considered a tax-deductible charitable donation.
Reference Checks: The program contacts at least two references provided by the applicant to verify information and gain insight into their character and past behavior. It's recommended to include both personal and professional references.
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This is the final, mandatory step to prepare you for your role before we match you with a student. This session is a vital part of your journey, providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to be an effective mentor. Our training focuses on:
Program Rules & Youth Protection: A detailed review of our program's rules and risk management policies covering topics like appropriate physical contact, digital and social media use, approved activities, and mandatory reporting for suspected abuse or neglect.
Developing Mentoring Skills: Practical guidance on key skills for a mentoring program, such as active listening, and fostering a growth mindset in your mentee.
After completing the training, you will sign a commitment form to formalize your partnership with the program, agreeing to adhere to our policies and safety guidelines. This signifies the completion of your screening, and you'll be one step closer to making a meaningful difference in a student's life.