iSchool Mentorship Program
Program Overview
The UCLA iSchool Mentorship program matches current iSchool students with professional mentors. Our mentor pool is composed of UCLA Library staff and UCLA iSchool alumni employed at a variety of institutions in Los Angeles and around the country. This program is jointly organized by the iSchool, Library, and Library and Information Studies Alumni Association (LISAA).
Timeline and Program Requirements
Mentorship matches are made for an academic year (fall through spring). We suggest meeting at least once per quarter, but there is no specific time commitment—each pair will decide on the frequency of communication and activities that are best for them. An orientation is offered for new participants each fall.
Mentorship Resources
Collaboratively written with previous mentorship program participants.
Mentorship Tips:
- Be communicative and respectful of the commitments each individual has made by participating in the program.
- Take time to get to know your match’s professional experience and interests.
- For mentors, think creatively about how your network and experience could help your mentee. Can you make connections for your mentee by setting up informational interviews? Could you invite your mentee to recruitment interviews/meetings/classes?
- For mentees, be proactive in setting goals for your mentoring relationship. What would best serve your professional/career interests?
- Let the organizers know if there is an issue with your match or if you have any questions, issues, or concerns.
Meeting Ideas
- Mentor’s career path and professional interests
- Mentee’s path to iSchool, dream job(s), undesirable jobs, etc.
- Current job duties of mentor
- Shadow (virtually or in person) interesting meetings (interview presentations, team meetings, etc.)
- Shadow (virtually or in person) instructional sessions/workshops
Advice for first position
- Job hunting advice, including:
Reviews of CVs/resumes and cover letters, interview process in mentor’s field and a mock interview - Discuss things you had to learn on the job (not covered in MLIS program), including:
- Referrals to other professionals who might be knowledgeable about your mentee’s interest areas
- Fellowships, internships, and other funding opportunities
- Professional engagement, conferences, research