Mentor
DeVone Eurales
Why did you join the IACAC Mentorship Program?
I enjoy helping colleagues and wanted to share some helpful tips about the world of admission. I remember how I felt during my first two years and I had lots of encouragement and it felt good to have people on my side and now want to be one of those people.
In what ways have you connected since you were matched (email, met for dinner/drinks, phone conversations)?
We have communicated through e-mail, phone conversations, and text messages. As well as attended some sessions together at Conference. Ja’Niah also invited me to a Thanksgiving type of meal at his house and I had the opportunity to meet some of his family and friends as well as occasional drinks when we are traveling in the same area.
What have you learned from your mentee?
I have learned a great deal, but mostly that having friends in the profession whether they are mentors or mentees are important for professional growth. We have had conversations ranging from the world of admissions to how to keep the balance of home and work life. Ja’Niah is eager to get involved and open to new ideas, the fact that he is a great mentee has made me a better mentor. When you have a colleague with so much spirit and determination, it drives you to do as much as you can to support their progress. Thanks Ja’Niah!
What advice would you give other mentors or mentees looking to join the Mentorship program or who are currently mentors or mentees?
Have fun, be patient, and it’s ok if you do not know exactly what to do. Mentors, send your mentees a postcard with some encouraging remarks, or just one to be fun or silly. Relationships do not just happen, there must be work on both sides, but it should be prompted by the mentor. You have the experience and expertise, use it! Mentees, keep an open mind and be receptive to new approaches. It’s perfectly fine to send your mentor an email every once in a while.
Other than the Mentorship Program, how has your membership in IACAC enhanced your professional development?
IACAC has helped me with leadership and networking opportunities. I love to get involved, and help when I can, but mostly I love the mentorship program. Turnover is always a concern for admission offices, so helping younger professionals see the benefits of the profession will ultimately help the cause.
[approved]Join the Mentorship Program today! Application Form[/approved]
Mentee
Ja’Niah Downing
Why did you join the IACAC Mentorship Program?
I joined the Mentorship Program due to the recommendation of two of my colleagues at Illinois State. They thought it would be a great opportunity for professional development and involvement in IACAC.
In what ways have you connected since you were matched (email, met for dinner/drinks, phone conversations)?
DeVonne Eurales from Knox College is my mentor and it has been an outstanding experience. He is always there with advice, especially when it comes to managing a recruitment territory in southern Illinois.
I usually call or email him every few weeks to catch up on work and life. He has also visited Bloomington/Normal on a couple of occasions. One of which was an early Thanksgiving celebration that my wife and I hosted.
What have you learned from your mentor?
Having a mentor like DeVonne is great because he remembers what it’s like to be new in the world of college admissions. There have been instances in which he has helped me with a situation before it has even occurred allowing me to properly prepare for a variety of situations before they even happen. He is doing a great job and I think I am better at what I do because I have someone like DeVonne to help me through.
What advice would you give other mentors or mentees looking to join the Mentorship program or who are currently mentors or mentees?
Anyone considering being a mentee or mentor should get involved in this program. The experience is invaluable for both the mentees and mentors. The relationships created through participating in the Mentorship program can be an integral part of both personal and professional growth.
Other than the Mentorship Program, how has your membership in IACAC enhanced your professional development?
The knowledge I have gained from attending the annual IACAC conference and District Seminars has been invaluable. I feel better prepared in my profession in regards to student and counselor interaction, current events in higher education, and opportunities for professional advancement. An organization like IACAC promotes a sense of camaraderie and professionalism in the field. I have also been fortunate enough to meet with individuals from many other college/universities and high schools around the state of Illinois and beyond that share the same ideals I have for ensuring access to higher education.
[approved]Join the Mentorship Program today! Application Form[/approved]