The idea of having a mentor is an interesting concept. For some, it provides an image of Obi-Wan or Yoda. For others, it is a wise businessman or woman who is guiding the recent college grad. Maybe it is a brother, a parent or even a professor. I venture to believe that if I asked you to pick someone who could be a possible mentor, you could think of one, maybe two people.

Allow me to share my personal story on finding a mentor. In the past few semesters I had thrown around the idea of asking a professor to be my mentor.

If I am being honest with myself, I had a purely idealistic view of what I thought my mentor would be like. I envisioned a wise old C.S. Lewis-type who would give me the solutions to all my problems. I have never been so happy to be wrong.

In actuality, I met a friend who has encouraged me to reach my potential and never stop thinking. Instead of finding solutions to my problems, I have been challenged to think beyond my sphere of influence and how I can impact others.

I could end this now and rattle off statistics or interesting stories about how a mentor can have a deep impact on our life. This has no purpose because until you experience a relationship that is about mutual learning and growth, then it is nearly impossible to grasp the impact of having a mentor.

Whether you have one semester left, or your graduation seems distant I strongly encourage you to make some time in your schedule and find someone who is older, wiser, and willing to be your mentor. It may be awkward in the beginning, but in the end you could have a strong friend and advocate.