Vision:

“We love you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.” (I Thess. 2:8)

Mentoring Tributes Do you have a tribute you'd like to share? We like to know how a mentor, or mentoring, has made a difference. Tributes can be sent to Lori Gesink, Mentoring Coordinator, at lgesink@calvin.edu

The vision for mentoring at Calvin College is best summed up in this Pauline text. We desire the mentoring center to be a place where people can receive a mentor who will come alongside them and help them to be a disciple of Christ. Our focus is on spiritual mentoring which has an impact on all aspects of life, because everything we do is a reflection of God.

Given our varying personalities and life stories, mentoring can take on a variety of forms. The fact remains that each mentor has committed to this program because they are delighted to share the beauty of living.

FAQ’s

What is a mentor?

A mentor is an older, more experienced person who helps another person to reach their God given potential. Mentors can fulfill many roles such as guide, coach, and role model, allowing each mentoring relationship to fit the needs of the mentee. A mentor’s three main tasks are to support, challenge, and provide vision for the mentee.

Who can receive a mentor?

The Calvin Mentoring program is designed to serve all of our students who desire a mentor. You can either contact Lori Gesink, Mentoring Coordinator, at lgesink@calvin.edu or stop by her office.

How does mentoring work?

There are several different facets to our program including: one-on-one mentoring relationships (faculty/staff to student), peer mentoring (student to student), small group mentoring, and a mentoring scholarship (apply through the financial aid office). Each mentoring relationship looks different, but one can expect to spend intentional time talking about your goals, strengths and weaknesses, and faith.Some mentor/mentees choose to spark conversation through reading a book, an outing, or lecture. The mentor and mentee should begin their relationship by discussing their expectations and goals and then working from there by maintaining consistent communication.

What is the mentoring center?

The mentoring center is physically an office space, but practically a nerve center. Director Lori Gesink will be able to place you with a mentor, give you resources to get started, or answer any questions you may have.

Why be mentored?

Life as a Calvin student is tumultuous. The majority of your time is spent attending class, studying, and building friendships all in the hopes that in several years you will emerge, degree in hand, ready to pursue your calling.

But, what happens between your first convocation and commencement? Perhaps you changed your major, lost a loved one, or became passionate about a new issue. How does one navigate all of this change, and still continue to grow as a Christian?

A mentor can be a source of tremendous support, challenge, encouragement, and vision during your time at Calvin. Students who have been mentored by Calvin faculty/staff can attest to the benefit. Sometimes you just need someone outside of your family, friends, and major to listen and speak into your life. Take the time to utilize the mentoring center. You will be amazed at your delight to share your life and begin to journey with a disciple of Christ.