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FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Is everyone matched with a mentoring partner?
Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to match everyone who is interested in participating. The pools of available mentors and interested mentorees do not always match perfectly. If you are not matched in your first session, you can be put on a waiting list for the next session or check out our other online communities.
Do mentors and mentorees ever meet face-to-face?
Most of our participants never meet face-to-face. The Online Peer Mentorship Program connects students at a distance to overcome obstacles of time and geography. However, when face-to-face meetings are possible, they can have a positive influence on the mentoring relationship.
How will mentors and mentorees communicate?
While email is common, there is no reason that the relationship must be limited to email. If both mentor and mentoree agree to communicate by other means (Blackboard, Pronto or other IM services, phone, in person, etc.), we encourage them to do so. The most important point is that the mentor and mentoree remain in regular contact with each other.
Since everyone applies over the Internet, how do you verify an applicant's identity?
Each applicant must provide his or her student ID number and other information. All applications are reviewed and compared to the information contained in students' records to validate their identity.
How will I know what to say?
Once your match is established, we will send a Mentorship handbook with discussion suggestions to both the mentors and the mentorees. These discussion suggestions are also posted in the Blackboard module. The handbook will address initiating and sustaining an online mentoring relationship and will suggest relevant topics for you to discuss with your match.
How much contact should we expect to have with each other?
This is entirely up to each mentor & mentoree pair. We recommend contacting each other at least once a week, and probably more frequently in the beginning weeks. Mentors and mentorees commit to spending up to one hour each week communicating with their match.
What if I am matched with a mentor/mentoree who does not share my interest(s)?
Exposure to someone with interests that differ from yours is part of growing and learning. Help each other to explore your different interests. There is a good chance you will find similarities even in your differences.
What do I do if my mentor/mentoree does not seem interested, i.e. does not return my emails or phone calls?
Be persistent and extend grace. Life has a way of getting busy unexpectedly. If you feel that your match is chronically unresponsive, please email or call the Online Peer Mentorship Coordinator to discuss the matter.
What do I do if I have a problem with my mentor/mentoree?
Always be professional and polite to your mentor/mentoree. As in any relationship, the Holy Spirit can help you respond in a Christ-like manner. In addition, the guidelines in your handbook offer some advice. If you are not able to resolve the issue, or if you are very uncomfortable with some aspect of your mentoring relationship, contact the Online Peer Mentorship Program Coordinator to discuss the matter by emailing undergradservices@regent.edu or by calling Student Services at 1.800.722.3680.
