Mentoring

OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM

The RPCV/W Mentoring Program aims to connect RPCVs with mentors who will help them think through developing a career path, navigating personal growth, and making decisions regarding one's professional life. We are very lucky to have an amazing network of RPCV/W members and volunteers who are excited to pass along their experience and wisdom. The four-month mentorship program is built around frequent conversations and activities, with the exact schedule and set of activities to be determined by each mentor-mentee pair. We will have scheduled events throughout the four-month duration and continually offer support and options for engagement. We offer constant communication throughout the program so please let us know how we can best support you!

Please fill out the application if you are interested in being part of the next cohort that starts in Summer 2023.

RPCV/W Mentoring Program Application

Mentoring is only available to RPCV/W members. Any person with experience is welcome as a mentor.

Not sure if you're a member of RPCV/W? Click here to check your membership status.

Newcomers to RPCV/W will note that our first year membership is free!

WHY BECOME A MENTOR?

  • Assist aspiring and emerging professionals to gain a better understanding of your field.
  • Share your knowledge and expertise within your field.
  • Gain enhanced skills in coaching and counseling.
  • Raise your profile in your particular field.

WHY BECOME A MENTEE?

  • Gain experienced professionals' perspectives in the field(s) you are interested and tap into their networks.
  • Identify long-term professional development needs.
  • Develop a meaningful professional relationship over a specified period of time.
  • Set SMART career goals and obtain support in achieving them.

WHO CAN SERVE AS A MENTOR?

Mentors should be individuals who feel that they can coach someone through a particular set of professional challenges. Whether this is guidance to someone just entering the field, to someone who is now facing managerial challenges, we are looking for mentors with all ranges of experience!

WHO CAN BE A MENTEE?

Mentees should be anyone hoping to be coached through professional and personal challenges. From newcomers to program managers, we will do our best to pair you with a mentor that can help provide the guidance you are looking for.

CAN YOU BE A MENTOR AND MENTEE?

Yes! If you would like to be mentored as well as serve as a mentor, please simply note this on your application and provide as much information about what you hope to get out of each role.

WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?

The mentorship program is voluntary and deliberately designed to be flexible and fit within your own schedule. Those involved can dedicate as much time as they would like to the program. We estimate that most participants will spend 1-2 hours per month on meetings and conversations between the mentor-mentee as well as other mentorship activities.  

SELECTION AND MATCHING PROCESS

Mentors and mentees will be selected based on the ability to meet the mentor’s/mentee’s target interest areas and needs. Priority will be given to applicants with limited access to mentorship programs. Mentors and mentees will be matched based on the below categories:

  • Country/regional focus of work
  • Focus of work (skill set, sector)
  • Specific interests/challenges
  • Goals for program

The RPCV/W Mentoring program connects RPCVs to fulfill our broader mission to help our members thrive as a community.

Questions are welcome! Contact German Rochez, RPCV/W's Mentoring Director: [email protected]