From Novice to Noble

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize mentors' impact on our lives. As a recent college graduate, I know firsthand how valuable mentorship can be, especially when breaking into the industry you want to work in.

When I first graduated from college, I was excited to start my career in the field of my dreams. However, I quickly realized that getting my foot in the door was easier said than done. I sent out countless resumes, attended networking events, and even tried cold-emailing industry professionals – but nothing seemed to work then.

That's when I turned to mentors for guidance. At first, it was intimidating. Not because the connections that I had weren’t solid or genuine. It's because I immediately expected all of my puzzle pieces to fall into place, but that isn’t the case for most people. Thankfully, I put my pride aside and found myself having several mentors willing to share their experiences and knowledge with me. They helped me refine my resume, connect me with other professionals in my field, and provide me with professional guidance.

I’ll never forget how much those experiences meant to me. Without their support and encouragement, I may have never found my footing in the industry I was looking to get into. They helped me build the skills and connections to succeed, even when everything seemed impossible. 

Mentoring is so important, especially for young people just starting their careers. Mentors can offer invaluable advice and support, helping their mentees build the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. They can also provide a sense of connection and community, which is especially important when entering a new industry.

Take the time to uplift those just starting in your field or those looking to break into it. Encourage and reassure them that they can achieve their goals with time and dedication. You never know how much of an impact you can have on someone's life by being a mentor. Let's celebrate this year's Mentoring Month as a chance to make a difference and help shape the future. Share your experience and knowledge with someone and help them find their path to success. If you’re someone who was like me, seek mentors who can offer guidance and support for young professionals. Remember, you don't have to do it alone.