Mentorship Program

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WHO:
Juniors and Seniors in FBISD high schools who have been identified as Gifted and Talented. Students must complete an application process to be considered for the program. For information on the application process, contact the mentorship office at 281-634-2931
WHAT:
Participate in a semester long seminar course followed by a semester long field experience working one-on-one with a mentor in the student's chosen field to receive one honors credit.
WHERE:
The seminar class is held at the FBISD Education Complex in Missouri City and will include several field trips within the Fort Bend/Houston area. The field experience will be done at the mentor's work site in the Fort Bend/Houston area. Students must provide their own transportation.
WHEN:
The seminar classes are held Monday and Thursday afternoons from 3:30-6:00, and will require outside preparation. The field experience requires students to meet with their mentor at least five hours per week (not counting travel time) plus time for completing their final product and presentation. During this phase, there will also be periodic class meetings.

What G/T Mentorship Students will gain:

Self-directed Learning - Students have the freedom to choose their topic of study, format of final project, and mentor site.

Creativity - Idea production, not idea replication is stressed. Students must be prolific with original ideas, especially with regard to their final projects.

Critical Thinking - Students practice written and verbal communication though resume development, weekly letters, research papers, formal interviews and presentation of their final project.

Research Skills - Students conduct research in their field of interest by visiting local university and specialty libraries, surfing the internet, and conducting informational interviews with professionals.

Self-Awareness - Students spend time examining their values, beliefs, interests, abilities, accomplishments and future goals.

Social Skills - Students interact with professionals and peers, forming solid relationships and an important support group among their mentorship colleagues.

College Applications - Colleges have shown an interest in applicants who can plan and complete self-directed projects. Final products can often be submitted in application packets. Also, mentors will write letters of recommendation as part of the student's final evaluation.

Student Objectives:

• Develop the skills necessary to succeed in a professional setting.
• Conduct research to uncover the complexities and choices within their chosen field of study.
• Gain awareness of the lifestyle of professionals in the discipline explored.
• Become involved in hands-on activities to the maximum extent the mentor deems appropriate.
• Plan, complete and present an in-depth project which reflects their expanded knowledge and experience in the field

Mentor Objectives:

• Act as a role model to demonstrate the professionalism and enthusiasm of those who are among the best in the field.
• Encourage the student's intellectual development regarding the principles and concepts of the discipline.
• Demonstrate the daily routine of their profession
• Provide appropriate experiences to give the student a broad, realistic view of the roles, responsibilities, and rewards of the discipline.
• Advise the student regarding the education and training required to advance in the field.
• Assist the student in identifying an appropriate project.