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Courtney WallaceMentor

Courtney Wallace

Why did you join the IACAC Mentorship Program?

My many mentors (official and unofficial) have helped make working in Higher Education a FANTASTIC experience and I wanted to be able to do the same for someone. It was also one of the first committees I joined when I moved to the Chicago Area from Rolla, MO…the group was welcoming, informative and they had fun too.

In what ways have you connected since you were matched (email, met for dinner/drinks, phone conversations)?

Megan and I first met when she was traveling back and forth to the Chicago Area from Indianapolis before she became a Chicago Regional Admissions Counselor. We exchanged e-mails and had conversations about what “regional representative” life is like compared to working from the office. So, our connection goes back a little farther than many matches. We chat at evening college programs, have dinner on occasion and serve on a couple committees together as well. We both have similar situations as we represent out-of-state institutions and share the experience of working in the office at our institution before transitioning to a “regional work-style.” It is wonderful to have someone to talk to that truly gets your profession and work situation!

What have you learned from your mentee?

Even though I am the mentor, I think Megan provides me with a great sense of support, fresh ideas and most of all…friendship.

What advice would you give other mentors or mentees looking to join the Mentorship program or who are currently mentors or mentees?

Everyone is busy, but the experience is VERY worth it! As a mentee or mentor you will be giving support to someone in the profession you enjoy. I think if more first year admissions counselors were involved in this program, overall first year admissions counselor turnover might be lower! Let’s face it, Admissions is non-stop and it’s nice to have someone to listen.

Other than the Mentorship Program, how has your membership in IACAC enhanced your professional development?

I have been in Admissions for 6 years now, and I continue to learn about myself and the profession by attending the IACAC Annual Conference and other events coordinated by IACAC. I have also made connections with other members in IACAC through committee involvement that have turned into friends, great resources and a support system for me professionally!

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Megan O’RourkeMentee

Megan O’Rourke

Why did you join the IACAC Mentorship Program?

I’ve been in Admission for a little over three years. This year, Butler moved me up to Chicago as a regional representative. This is the first time Butler has had a regional rep, and although I’m not new to the profession, I’m new to working in Chicago. I wanted to be able to go to someone (i.e. a mentor) who I could ask questions of, discuss problems with, and be able to figure my new position out.

In what ways have you connected since you were matched (email, met for dinner/drinks, phone conversations)?

Courtney and I actually knew each other and were friends before we became a match. That being said, it’s been SO great to have someone to talk to in my first year as regional rep. We email, talk on the phone, text and we’ve been to dinner. I couldn’t be happier with this match!!

What have you learned from your mentor?

The biggest thing for me has been to take things in stride. This is the first year that my institution has had a regional rep. I was, and still am, learning about the life of a regional rep. Courtney has been an invaluable resource giving me advice on everything from how to manage my first year as a regional to things to expect in the future.

What advice would you give other mentors or mentees looking to join the Mentorship program or who are currently mentors or mentees?

My first piece of advice is to sign up to be a mentor or mentee! While it is a bit of a time commitment, I honestly think it’s well worth it. As a mentee, don’t be afraid to share your frustrations or concerns. I think it helps to be able to talk through stuff with someone who has an objective opinion.

As a mentor, you can help guide the new counselors through what can sometimes be a trying/frustrating first year. I just wish I would have had a mentor my first year. I think it would have helped so much!! As a mentor, make sure to reach out to your mentee. My first year was a whirlwind, and knowing that someone was there, who could listen, give advice and help guide you… I think that makes a world of difference.

Other than the Mentorship Program, how has your membership in IACAC enhanced your professional development?

I’ve only been in this profession three and a half years, but I’m really grateful for the time I’ve spent in IACAC. I’ve learned so much about higher education, admission counseling and working with students. The first conference I attended, I listened to people speak about what it’s meant to them to be in this field, and the impact it’s had on their life. I knew then that this was the career for me. The best thing about being a member, though, is the fact that professional development doesn’t just happen at conferences or within specific programs. Some of the best advice and information I’ve learned was simply by talking to people I consider to be my “unofficial mentors.” I’m grateful for that, and I hope that someday I’ll be able to give back as much as I was given. 🙂

[approved]Join the Mentorship Program today! Application Form[/approved]
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