Mentorship is an important aspect of the JHLP experience. Each Holmes Leadership Associate is matched with a professional mentor who helps them develop leadership and professional skills. Our mentors work in all engineering fields, plus environmental science, computer science, geology, law, and medicine.
The application opens in August or September. Most pairs will begin meeting in January and will stay together for at least one calendar year. (January–December). The match can be renewed beyond the first year if both the mentor and mentee agree. For information, email jhlp@ou.edu.
The JHLP mentor application will open in August or September.
Who can apply? Practicing or retired professionals holding a degree in engineering, computer science, environmental science, geology, medicine, or a related field may apply. Mentors should have at least 5 years of work experience following the bachelor's degree. We welcome alumni of any university, not just OU. Referrals are appreciated.
When can I apply? The application opens in August or September.
How long does mentorship last? The mentorship term is one calendar year (January-December). The match can be renewed beyond the first year if both the mentor and mentee agree. Most of our pairs stay together until the mentee graduates.
When will I start working with a mentee? JHLP spends the fall semester matching mentors and mentees. Most pairs will begin meeting in January and will stay together for at least one calendar year (January–December).
How does it work? Students meet with their mentors once or twice a month, and meetings can be in-person or virtual. We provide materials to guide the discussion for some of the meetings, and mentors and students are encouraged to discuss topics of their own choosing as well. Because JHLP is a leadership program, discussions often focus on the mentee's personal leadership development plan. You do not need to be a leadership expert to be a good mentor! Mentorship is a mutual learning process, and we provide lots of support to help JHLP mentors and mentees learn together.
I am already matched with a JHLP mentee. Do I need to reapply? Maybe. If you are currently working with a student, you do not need to re-apply. Remember, matches last for a calendar year. However, if your mentee has graduated or is no longer participating, please complete the application.
Current Holmes Leadership Associates, HLA alumni, JHLP mentors, and alumni of the former Industrial & Systems Engineering Leadership Program (IELP) can connect with each other through our LinkedIn group.
