Mentoring

Building Excellence for Students in Transition (BEST)

is a unique mentoring program designed to increase our students sense of belonging and connection to UNCW. By familiarizing students with the campus and it’s environment, the likelihood of the mentees continued enrollment is enhanced. The mentor serves as the vehicle to bridge the connection through personal ongoing contact and participation in enrichment activities with the mentee.

The essential goal of BEST is to maximize the students’ potential to achieve academic success and to adjust responsibly to the social challenges presented by collegiate life.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a one-on-one relationship in which a wise and trusted guide shows someone “the way,” and provides advice.

What are the benefits of being a mentor?

Research shows that mentoring improves better attendance, academic performance, builds positive relations with peers and adults. Students participate more frequently in the classroom, extracurricular activities and develop a sense of responsibility for their community. Students gain more real life experiences and have higher graduation rates from the institution at which they started.

What does a mentor do?

A mentor will set up a regular meeting scheduled at least one hour per week with their mentee. S/he will meet with their mentee during regular school hours and within the confines of all institutional policies, rules, codes of conduct and regulations. The mentor will communicate with their mentees by e-mail, or phone. Mentees discussion topics with their mentors can range from academic successes to other personal challenges. The influential role of the mentor is to provide guidance, leadership, and to serve as a resource to assist the mentee with navigating the UNCW system.