Course

Welcome — we’re so glad you’re here.

You’re joining a community of mentors who believe in the power of showing up — consistently, compassionately, and without conditions. At Be A Mentor – Academic Mentoring, our mission is simple and powerful: to match young people with supportive, caring adults who can help them grow, set meaningful goals, and believe in their own potential.

The youth in our program range in age from 7 to 24 and live all across the United States. They come from diverse backgrounds, and while each story is unique, many of our mentees are navigating academic challenges, financial hardship, or the impact of being raised by a single parent or caregiver. What they all deserve — and what you're here to offer — is someone in their corner.

As a mentor, you're not expected to be a tutor or a therapist. You’re here to be a trusted adult: a cheerleader, an accountability partner, a steady presence who listens without judgment and believes in a young person even when they’re struggling to believe in themselves.

This training was created to help you feel confident, prepared, and grounded as you begin your mentoring journey. We encourage you to engage fully with each section — take your time, reflect, and think about how these tools will support the relationship you're building with your mentee. The more you put into this training, the more you'll be able to show up with clarity, intention, and care.

How the Training Works:

Each section of this training is designed to build on the last. You’ll move through them in order, reviewing written content, watching short videos, and completing brief quizzes.

Quiz Instructions:

• After selecting your answer on a quiz, click the “Check” button to see if it’s correct.

• If you answer incorrectly, you’ll receive helpful feedback. You can:

  • Try again immediately, or

  • Review the content or video, then return to the quiz later.

• You can retake each quiz as many times as needed — the goal is to help you feel confident, not catch you off guard.

• Once you've answered a question correctly, continue to the next one.

There’s no rush. Take this at your own pace — we’re excited to support you in becoming the kind of mentor a young person will remember for years to come.

Watch the training video, then complete the corresponding quiz. 

Watch the training video, then complete the corresponding quiz. 

Strong mentoring relationships don’t just happen — they’re built slowly, through consistency, care, and trust. Many of the youth in our program have experienced instability, academic stress, or trauma. Because of that, how we show up matters as much as what we do.

This module will help you learn how to build a meaningful connection with your mentee using trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices. You’ll explore simple, powerful ways to create emotional safety, honor their identity, and develop a relationship rooted in mutual respect. The trust you build can become the foundation for growth, healing, and real change.

Watch the training video, follow the instructions for the scenario referenced in the video, then complete the corresponding quiz. 

1. Watch the Active Listening Video 1 
2. Watch the next section of the training
3. Watch Active Listening Video 2
4. Complete the quiz

Watch the training video, then complete the corresponding quiz. 

Closing video with optional feedback survey (participation encouraged and appreciated, and can be anonymous). 

List of contact information included for help and support for reporting serious concerns or if you need support with your mentoring relationship.