Mentorship programs are often seen in higher education. They are far less common in early academic life. Such programs have many distinct benefits that experts believe should be provided more commonly in elementary schools. 

Monty Cerf explains that mentoring greatly benefits a student’s education, as it offers hands-on experience with experts and improves their chances of finding success in all walks of business life. Students can personalize their journey by learning to ask for help from their mentor, achieving their academic and professional goals with monitored guidance.

Unbeknownst to many, however, not all mentorship programs are the same — there are actually different types to consider. Some Mentees can benefit from a mixture of types, while others may gain the most from just one or two mentoring styles. 

The 5 Types of Mentorship Styles

Contrary to popular belief, mentors aren’t “just” tutors or advisors that provide instruction on navigating academia or lessons. They actually work closely with their mentee (i.e., the student) to facilitate their understanding and discovery of how their schoolwork relates to them and their future. They can add a different and additive perspective from a parent or a teacher

While all mentors offer the above, their approaches differ depending on what mentorship style they embody. Many types exist, but the most common are as follows:

The Expert

Sometimes called the advisor, the expert is the most sought-after mentor. These individuals have already excelled in a specific study area, or perhaps a few, allowing them to give students previously untapped access to the mentee’s dream career path. 

They use their experience and expertise to provide advice, guiding pupils toward their goals. 

The Anchor

Academic life, notably higher education, can sometimes feel like a road to nowhere. Depending on the pupil, this can take a heavy emotional toll, leaving them feeling rushed, disappointed, or overwhelmed. 

The anchor mentor aims to keep them grounded. They can relate to such feelings, providing an outlet for their mentees. Students can consider them a shoulder to lean on when things get tough.

The Champion

The champion is the life coach of academia. They find independent study opportunities and internships for their mentees, accelerating their careers and furthering their education.

Nowadays, business success often comes down to connections and networks. Thus, the champion mentor is great for leveraging both, giving students otherwise inaccessible contacts. 

The Copilot

The copilot is akin to a buddy system.

Students will play both roles in copilot mentorship programs, becoming the teacher and the student alongside a trusted peer on a similar course.

The Protector

The protector is a safe space creator. They provide support and may err on the side of overprotective.

While this may seem like a potentially negative thing, protectors can be really helpful for students going through a transitional state (such as nearing graduation).

The Benefits of Mentorship

Mentoring affords students various benefits, most of which will fit into two categories — goal setting and support.

Mentors will go the extra mile for their mentees, ensuring they identify their own strengths, set achievable goals for their education and career, and learn self-advocacy.

With all the benefits and styles in mind, it’s no wonder professionals are advocating for such programs to exist in primary education establishments.