This activity helps you support your mentee in setting clear goals and making independent decisions, reinforcing their confidence and autonomy in their STEM journey.
Mentee Autonomy and Empowerment
- Decision Making, Empowerment & Supporting Career Development, Goal-Setting, Leadership
Introduction
Process
- Goal-Setting Workshop (15 min)
Mentees list their top three career or personal development goals.
Mentors guide them through setting a SMART goal (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) for one of their goals.
The mentee remains in control, while the mentor offers guidance, not solutions. - Decision-Making Role Play (10-15 min)
Scenario: A mentee must choose between two conflicting opportunities (e.g., a research internship vs. a leadership program).
In a group: One mentee makes the decision, and the mentor observes, then provides reflective feedback (without influencing the choice).
Alone: Reflect on how you would support a mentee facing a tough decision. Write down open-ended questions you could ask to help them think critically.
Mentee Empowerment questions
Helping mentees evaluate their sense of agency and empowerment.
- Do I feel confident in making decisions for myself? If not, what are the key barriers?
- How has my mentor helped or hindered my sense of independence?
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