Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines and Tips

The Shansi Alumni Mentorship program was designed to provide professional support for Shansi Fellows and recent Fellowship alumni who are planning for the next stages of their careers. This community-centered initiative can provide space for networking, skills development, sharing opportunities, and more.

Below, we’ve outlined a set of guidelines and tips for mentors, mentees, and the community at-large. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ted Samuel (tsamuel@oberlin.edu)

For All Participants

This is a private professional network. Please do not share this directory. Furthermore, do not share any individual’s contact information without explicit approval.  

In addition to the Directory, Shansi will offer a few career panels and possible skills building workshops throughout the year. If you are interested in proposing a panel or workshop, please contact Shansi staff.

Shansi is committed to fostering a safe and equitable community. Please review our Policy on Discrimination and Sexual and Other Harassment on our website. If you have any questions, concerns, or incidents to report, please contact Executive Director Gavin Tritt (gtritt@oberlin.edu) using the guidelines outlined in the policy. 

For Mentees (Current Fellows and Recent Alums)

We understand that networking can be tricky. However, please remember that the Shansi community is here to support you as you navigate the early stages of your respective careers. Please note the following tips:

• Remember that everyone listed in the Alumni Mentorship directory is a volunteer. Our mentors lead full and busy lives. Please keep this in mind as you communicate with them.

• When contacting a mentor, be sure to introduce yourself and your connection to Shansi. Make sure the subject line of emails are concise but descriptive. (e.g. Shansi Alumni Mentorship - Discussing Careers in Medicine) 

• Keep all “asks” reasonable. Don’t ask for a job or an internship right away. Think of what can be accomplished in a 20-30 minute conversation. Examples include learning ways to expand your professional network or discussing the skills and experience required to be successful in a specific industry.

• Give mentors multiple avenues for follow up. You can offer to continue communicating on email, connect on LinkedIn or social media, or to set up a phone, Skype, or Zoom call. Provide options.

• Do your research and have specific questions prepared before a conversation. Have a clear set of objectives and don’t expect your mentor to do all the work. 

• Be sure to give the mentor space to speak. We understand the desire to talk in-depth about yourself and your experiences as a Fellow. However, time is limited. Please make sure the conversation is balanced.

• Always thank mentors after a conversation/communication.

For Mentors

Thank you for supporting the next generation of Shansi Fellows. We appreciate the time and the advice you provide them. Please consider the following:

• Networking is hard for young professionals. Our Fellows and recent alumni face a lot of challenges as they navigate the early stages of their careers. Your patience and support is greatly valued.

• Do your best to respond to mentees when they contact you. A lack of response can be discouraging for young professionals. If you are unable to meet with them or assist them at the time, please let them know. 

• If you are experiencing any difficulties, please contact Ted Samuel (tsamuel@oberlin.edu).