How to Start, Maintain, or End a Mentorship Relationship

Mentorship can be a valuable step in your academic and career journey. This guide walks you through how to reach out to a potential mentor, maintain a strong relationship, and respectfully pause or end one if needed.

Getting Started with a Mentor

Feeling nervous about reaching out? That’s normal! Most professionals enjoy offering guidance and mentoring students – all you have to do is ask. 

Before reaching out, make sure to review the Building Professional Relationships presentation. You must complete the form at the end of the presentation to participate in any Magner Career Center mentoring initiatives. 

Whenever speaking with a mentor be sure to:

> Be respectful of your mentor’s time. 
> Always follow up. 
> Don’t hesitate to ask questions. 
> Reflect on your mentorship experience and stay open to future connections. 

How to Contact a Potential Mentor

Option 1: LinkedIn Outreach

If you don’t have the mentor’s email, use LinkedIn:

1. Go to their profile 

2. Click “Connect” 

3. Choose “Add a note” and include a short message. 

Sample Message: 

Hi Michael, 

I found your profile while searching for Brooklyn College alumni to chat with. Your career path strongly resonates with me, and I was wondering if you’d be open to answering a few questions about your company and career journey. 

Thank you for considering! 
– [Your Name] 

Option 2: Email Outreach 

Email Subject Line: Brooklyn College Student Seeking Career Conversation 

Sample Email #1: 

Dear Justin, 

My name is Eric Smith and I’m a Business Management major at Brooklyn College with a concentration in Marketing. I came across your profile while researching alumni on LinkedIn and was especially interested in your work at IPG Media Lab. 

I would appreciate 20–30 minutes of your time (phone, Zoom, or in person) to learn more about your career. I am typically available [insert your availability]. 

Looking forward to hearing from you. 

Best regards, 
Eric 

Sample Email #2: 

Dear Susan,

My name is Sally Pierce, and I currently work as a Student Assistant in the Development department at Brooklyn College. I’ve developed an interest in grassroots fundraising and admire your career accomplishments in that space. 

I’d love to hear your story and ask a few questions. Would you be open to a 30-minute coffee chat or a 15-minute phone/Zoom call if that’s easier? I’m typically available [insert your availability].Thank you for your time. 
 

Best regards, 
Sally 

Option 3: Talking by Phone or Video Chat

Once your mentor agrees to a meeting, you may need to call them. Here’s a simple phone script: 

You: May I speak with Ms. Burns? 

You: Hello Ms. Burns, this is John Smith from the Brooklyn College Alumni Mentor Program. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me. I’d like to go over the questions I sent in advance and would also welcome any advice you’re willing to share. 

(After your discussion) 

Thank you again. Would it be okay if I reach out again in the future? If so, do you prefer phone or email? 

Sending a Thank-You Note 

After your meeting, always send a thank-you note. Here’s an example:

Dear Terry, 

Thank you so much for speaking with me about your role as a Dietician at Maimonides Hospital. I truly appreciate the time you shared and the insight you provided — from daily responsibilities to certification paths. 

Your guidance is helping me evaluate my next steps as I explore multiple healthcare career paths. I’ll follow up in a few months to share my progress. 

Best regards, 
[Your Name]

Pausing or Ending a Mentorship

Scenario 1: You lost touch but want to restart 

Dear [Mentor Name], 

I apologize for our loss of contact. I’ve been caught up with school and personal matters but truly valued our past conversations. If you’re open to it, I’d love to continue our mentorship. 

Looking forward to reconnecting, 
[Your Name] 

Scenario 2: You want to pause the relationship 

Dear [Mentor Name], 

Thank you again for your support. At this time, I realize I’m unable to commit fully due to school/personal obligations. I’d like to pause our mentorship and hope to resume it in the future, if possible. 

Thank you for understanding, 

All best, 
[Your Name] 

Scenario 3: You haven’t heard back in a while 

Dear [Mentor Name], 

Thank you for initially agreeing to be my mentor. After [insert number] follow-up attempts without a response, I understand now may not be the right time for you. I think it’s best to formally close our mentorship. 

Wishing you all the best, 
[Your Name]

Final Tips 

• Be respectful of your mentor’s time. 
• Always follow up. 
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions. 
• Reflect on your mentorship experience and stay open to future connections