Frequently Asked Questions- Mentor Edition

Scholarship Allocation 

  • What can the HEAR Scholarship be used for?
    • The HEAR Scholarship can be used for Tuition, Fees, Room, and Board; i.e. any expenses that are paid through the scholar’s university account. 
  • Can the HEAR Scholarship be used for off-campus housing?
    • The HEAR Scholarship can not be used for off-campus housing unless it is paid from a scholar’s student account.
  • Can the HEAR Scholarship be used for study abroad?
    • This is case-dependent. Please have your scholar contact HEAR.
  • Does HEAR have an emergency fund? If so, how should I direct my mentee to ask?
    • There is an angel fund that can be allocated at the discretion of the scholarship committee.
    • Please contact HEAR if you believe your scholar urgently needs financial assistance. Examples include disruptions to meal access, unexpected travel expenses, or medical testing not covered by insurance.
    • Your scholar can also reach out directly to the Executive Director to discuss how to apply directly for emergency funding. 

Resources

  • My mentee is struggling academically. What are some resources I can direct them towards?
    • Tutoring Centers: Most colleges offer free subject-specific tutoring (e.g., math labs, writing centers).
    • Academic Advising: Advisors can help with course planning, academic concerns, and graduation requirements.
    • Study Groups: Joining or forming study groups can provide collaborative learning and peer support.
    • Office Hours: Professors and teaching assistants often offer office hours to answer questions and provide guidance.
    • Library Resources: Libraries provide research support, study materials, and academic workshops.
    • Please also encourage your mentee to contact HEAR for additional resources and support.
  • My mentee is struggling mentally. What are some resources I can direct them towards?
    • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Most colleges provide counseling services. Students should contact their school’s health center.
    • Peer Support Groups: Check if the campus offers student-led mental health groups or organizations (like Active Minds).
    • Mental Health Hotlines: Many universities have 24-hour mental health hotlines for emergencies.
    • If the student feels that their mental health concern could be related to a learning or other disability such as ADHD, have them contact Student Disability Service on campus. They will be able to identify extra support.
  • My mentee is struggling socially. What are some resources I can direct them towards?
    • Student Organizations & Clubs: Joining clubs or special interest groups helps meet peers with similar interests.
    • Campus Events: Attending social events, workshops, and networking activities can provide natural opportunities to connect.
    • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Therapy sessions can help address social anxiety or difficulties forming connections.
    • Peer Mentorship Programs: Many colleges have programs where upperclassmen mentor newer students to help them navigate campus life.
    • Cultural and Identity Centers: Safe spaces to connect with people with similar backgrounds and experiences.
  • My mentee asked if I had any ideas for internships and if there a larger network I can tap into.
    • Advise your scholar to attend all workshops that HEAR has access to. Encourage them to contact HEAR staff to work within our network. 

Other

  • I have not been able to connect with my mentee. What should I do?
    • Please let HEAR Staff know ASAP. We will work to make the connection happen. 

 

If you have other questions, please email mentoring@hearfoundation.org for assistance.