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Mentor Program FAQ

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LGBTQ Mentoring Program FAQ

Are meetings between mentors and mentees confidential?

Mentors take very seriously the privacy of their mentees. However, due to the fact that the meetings take place in public, it is possible that friends or others the mentee knows may see the mentor and mentee together. Trust that the mentor will never disclose the nature of the mentor/mentee relationship without the mentee’s permission. The mentors also participate in monthly group supervision meetings facilitated by the program coordinator. During these meetings, the mentors receive supervision from the coordinator, and provide support to one another by sharing ideas and resources without sharing specific identifiable information of the mentees.

How are mentors and mentees paired?

After a mentee turns in their application and undergoes an intake interview, the program coordinator pairs mentors and mentees based on:

  • Shared characteristics such as their sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic/racial identity, or other intersecting identities 
  • Academic and personal interests
  • When possible, we try to accommodate any specific requests a mentee might have if available

Who are mentors?

Mentors are UC Irvine students, faculty, or staff members who have worked through their own LGBTQ coming out process, and have had experience negotiating life as an LGBTQ individual. It is this personal understanding that makes mentors particularly well suited to help others.

What would mentors and mentees typically do together?

Mentors and mentees discuss issues of interest to the mentee. Often discussions center on self-acceptance, coming out to friends or family, same-gender dating questions, safer sex practices, religious conflicts, multiple identities (e.g. being LGBTQ and an ethnic minority). They can also focus on academic or professional issues related to LGBTQ identity. Mentors and mentees explore positive resources together (e.g., Gay and Lesbian Community Centers, the UCI LGBTRC).

Mentors and mentees may attend LGBTQ activities or community events together such as discussion groups, gay pride parades or festivals, gay-comedy acts or gay-related theater performances.

How often do mentors and mentees meet?

Mentors and mentees usually start out meeting weekly. Over time, they may meet less frequently, depending upon the mentee’s needs. Meetings are flexible in order to accommodate both mentors’ and mentees’ schedules.

What if I don't like my mentor?

Though it is extremely rare, sometimes mentees are assigned to new mentors if the match is not working out. The program coordinator facilitates this process and change. We want to ensure the mentee gets the support they need in a comfortable and safe environment.

Fandom and Mental Health Benefits

It is getting closer to the holiday break and the end is in sight! Soon we will be with family and friends and getting some much-needed relaxation after the start to the quarter! Phew! While this time can be something to look forward to, it is important to still be aware of caring for your mental health. Here are some things to consider as we reach the end of the year!

Managing Perfectionism

It is getting closer to the holiday break and the end is in sight! Soon we will be with family and friends and getting some much-needed relaxation after the start to the quarter! Phew!

While this time can be something to look forward to, it is important to still be aware of caring for your mental health. Here are some things to consider as we reach the end of the year!

Mental Health Awareness Month

It is getting closer to the holiday break and the end is in sight! Soon we will be with family and friends and getting some much-needed relaxation after the start to the quarter! Phew!

While this time can be something to look forward to, it is important to still be aware of caring for your mental health. Here are some things to consider as we reach the end of the year!