Mentor Checks

In many ways, Mentors and Proteges are just like buddies in a buddy system. They stick up for each other, look out for each other, help one another if one is confused or needs an explanation. It is essential that they each initiate one of the weekly meetings, so that each feels and knows they are putting in equal amounts of energy. It is also recommended that check-ins are not skipped, even and especially is one of both students did not work in the day. Confiding in another during a closed check in is a guilt free way to relieve stress about not getting work done. Students hate being told that they're running out of time, and it makes them want to do their work even less. Sometimes they just need to be told, judgement free, that it's okay, and that everything is going to come together. Because everything always does. And sometimes that's all it takes; one buddy, mentor, pal,,, one person to tell you they have your back, and it's gonna be okay. Being journalists, yearbook students know better than anyone what emotions are and how impactful they can be. And we most definitely have them, too. Don't let a disconnect arise due to the fact that students have lives other than yearbook, and that all our emotions are valid (Though not always rational).