Preparing to Mentor

Before the mentoring relationship begins, please review the following materials and steps to ensure a smooth start to the semester:

1. Watch the Orientation Video
   Review the 55-minute orientation video (conducted in ASL). For best viewing, open the video on a computer and switch to Gallery View. Refer to the image  provided for instructions on adjusting your view.

2. Review Course Expectations
   Your mentee will provide you with a copy of the course syllabus. Read it to familiarize yourself with what we expect from students during practicum.

3. Inform Key Individuals
   Let your supervisor, classroom instructors, Deaf students, and other key staff know that an interpreting student will be working with you this semester.
   Briefly explain the practicum student’s role and purpose in the setting.

4. Schedule Weekly Supervision Meetings
   Schedule a consistent weekly supervision meeting with your mentee. Students and mentors must meet for a minimum of 30 hours per semester (averaging 2 hours per week). Meetings may occur in one sitting or be divided into shorter sessions.
   Review the Tips for the Weekly Supervision Meetings for guidance.

5. Explore Skill-Building Resources
   Visit the Resources page for links to activities that can support interpreting skill development.

6. Textbook
   Students will be reading The Interpreter’s Quick Guide to Self-Employment by Johnson and Bocian.  If you would like to borrow a copy of this book to help reinforce the information being learned with your mentee, please contact the practicum coordinator.