THE MENTORING EFFECT By Emmy Munn, MPISCC Student Member

In my opinion, mentoring is one of the most important tools a student can utilize during their academic career to progress in their personal professional endeavors after graduation. Mentoring is essential because of the knowledge and tools students can gain from their mentors that one may not obtain from the classroom. Not only is mentoring important, it also provides professional socialization and personal support after the student graduates from college. My mentor has equipped me with valuable knowledge that will help me in my future endeavors as a professional. Not only does my mentor express the importance of certificate programs in the hospitality industry, she also gives me vital insight into the industry and offers her advice in how I can be the best business professional in the future. The knowledge I gained from conversations with my mentor is incalculable; I gain real-time knowledge of the industry and develop a stronger understanding of the industry while I am still pursuing my degree.

I want to express the notion that students should not be afraid to develop professional mentor-mentee relationships between professionals in the industry. In my own experience, I learned the notion that most

professionals want to help college students and have a desire to see their mentees succeed. Finding a mentor can be as simple as messaging someone you admire and aspire to become on LinkedIn. Finding a mentor can be tailored to your own personal experience, whether you admire one of your professors, discover an inspiring professional online, or even a guest speaker at your college, it is essential to build a relationship and continue networking with professionals in the industry. Since I am in the hospitality industry, networking is essential in my career, thus, students should begin practicing their very own networking skills and reach out to future mentors.

My mentor has empowered me to pursue different avenues in the industry I was unaware of. Having my mentor illustrate the notion that empowered women can be very successful has been crucial in my success this past semester. Having an individual I can look up to and aspire to become one day is extremely motivating. Not only is it inspiring that she is a business professional that is continuously rising in the corporate event planning industry, she is a strong woman who dedicates her valuable time to mentoring future leaders in the industry.

Mentorship has shown to be powerful and impactful to both the mentor and the mentee. At MPI Southern California, there are lots of opportunities to mentor and advocate for one another. Email VP of Leadership Development Libby Zarrahy to learn more and get involved today.