Arise Mentoring knows how invaluable it is for mentees to build a network of support especially during this difficult period of the Coronavirus. Many students will be suffering from anxiety and concerns about their future and often mentees do not know where best to get the support they need. Here are our five tips on building a support network that you can turn to for inspiration, motivation and encouragement.
Support on social media
Many organizations that support students have an active presence on social media and may offer posts which can give tips on local support groups . Follow those accounts to ensure you are accessing all of the offered resources and are able to network with other students who may be trying to network with other students in similar positions. You may also get a chance to hear about employability events through social media and can network through events.
Join a support group
Support groups are a great way for mentoring to share concerns and with other foster parents. You may also be referred to get professional emotional support if needed and support groups can give you more information on this to help you on your journey. Many fostering support groups enable you to meet foster parents in your local area and exchange ideas, tips and motivation and get to listen to their experiences and learn from them.
Seeking support from your mentor
It is important to feel comfortable to seek support from your mentor when needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them and discuss your fears or concerns about your current situation. It can be a really daunting time of uncertainty but thankfully, there are many people in your community who are eager to help you and you just need to ask. You could speak to a trusted family member, your spouse or a friend to enable you to get the support and encouragement you need.
Team work
Why not team up with another mentee and organise an online monthly meet up or arrange to meet for virtual coffee at a convenient time online to share experiences and motivate one another. Sometimes doing things alone can be daunting but by teaming up with another mentee to share your feelings and challenges can feel more at ease and share your highs and lows of studying at home. This will enable you to have someone to talk to and have a listening ear when you may need to talk.
