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Mentorship comes in varying capacities outside of official formal programs.  Buidling relationships is important and can be both within a formal setting and an informal (but intentional) setting.  

A mentor is someone who is willing to provide guidance, advice, or direction to you for personal and professional growth and development. It is apropos to seek out someone willing to support you and to ask for that person to be your mentor. Keep asking until you find someone you gel with and feel comfortable seeking support.  

Looking for mentorship programs? 

• Apply for the Faculty Empowerment and Leadership Academy (FELA--a program by ASCCC) 

• Look for the Part-time Faculty Nexus Workshops (newly launched in spring of 2021)

• Ask your local human resources department for mentor programs or pipeline opportunities

• Check your professional affiliations and organizations

Current Mentorship or Pipeline Programs

• Future Instructors in Training College of the Canyons

• Faculty Diversity Internship Program Los Rios Community College District

• San Diego/Imperial County Community College Association (SDICCCA) Regional Fellowship Program San Diego and Imperial County Region

Mentoring Students

• Teacher Assistantship-Mentorship Program Rio Hondo College

Don't give up hope! There are more resources in "The Importance of Academic Mentoring" - penned April 2021!

Still not convinced? Try reading "How Mentoring Can Impact Your Job Search and Career." 

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As you seek opportunities to build your curriulum vitae or resume, remember you have vital skills, talents, and abilities sharpened by your lived experiences and personal background. 

Empowered faculty--empower faculty, so find those leaders on campus, in your department, and at the state level who will guide you to formal leadership opportunities and spaces.

Can't Find Leadership Opportunities? Consider these things:

• Submit your application to volutneer and serve on a statewide committee

• Consider running for ASCCC Executive positions (elections happen every spring)

• Run for a seat in your local senate; if they don't have one for part-time faculty, advocate for one

• Attend the ASCCC Part-time Faculty Institute (held annually every winter/early spring)

• Sign up for the ASCCC Part-time faculty listserv