Meta-analysis of various interventions for high-ability youth indicates that having a mentor is extremely beneficial; however, it is very difficult to arrange a mentor within school because of the need for regular availability, the importance of matching students and mentors, school timetables, Blue Card requirements etc.
When attending university or within the workplace, it is critical that a suitable mentor is identified and accessed regularly. This is particularly important for female students who are trying to break into a traditionally male workplace as a mentor should be skilled and able to identify possible hazards and guide inexperienced individuals around or through forthcoming potential hazards.
Many successful individuals have benefitted from having a mentor who skills and guide youth as they embark on a study and/or career path. It may be that a mentor is identified from among lecturers at university. Alternatively, a mentor can be within an organization within which one works.
My own mentor was Emeritus Professor Miraca Gross who was the founder and Director of the Gifted Education Research, Resource and Information Centre - GERRIC - at UNSW. Miraca was an influential lecturer when I first underwent post-graduate study in Gifted Education.
She was the one who convinced me that I had acquired all the knowledge that was available in this field within Australia and that to learn more and progress further, I needed to go overseas. She encouraged me to apply for a Churchill Fellowship to do so and suggested where I might gain valuable knowledge and experience, overseas.
As a result of her guidance, I timed my planned overseas travel to take in a couple of key conferences and events that proved to be invaluable, later. Miraca; who was world-renowned for her research and writing in Gifted Education, used her considerable network of overseas colleagues to 'smooth the path' for me, while overseas, introducing me to key people in our joint field.
Without her key mentoring role, I would not have been able to acquire the knowledge that I have in this area. I was later offered a leadership role by her and when she left UNSW, she gave me many of her books. This was a significant gift!
Everyone needs a mentor like Miraca, but it is particularly important for high ability youth who will not reach their potential unless guided by someone who understands the terrain and can guide and support them while they become established.
© Michele Juratowitch
michele@clearingskies.com.au