PROGRAM MISSION

Our mission is to encourage the professional and personal development of international educators in Illinois through one-on-one relationships and cohort groups. IEI is committed to helping our members build organic relationships and connect in meaningful ways, and we value the experiences and perspectives of seasoned IE professionals as well as those new to the field. Connecting people at various stages of their careers and in different areas of IE has the power to benefit mentors and mentees individually as well as strengthen the field as a whole.

GOALS

  • Sharing experiences, knowledge, and resources to build competencies
  • Facilitating conversation and reflection
  • Helping mentors and mentees expand their professional networks
  • Cultivating a community of IE professionals in Illinois

PROGRAM TYPES

One-on-one mentorship pairs: One mentor and one mentee are paired for the duration of the program, approximately one year. This model allows for individual attention and support.
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Mentorship Groups: One mentor and a group of 2-3 mentees are grouped together for the duration of the program, approximately one year. This model allows for participants to expand their networks and learn not just from their mentor but also from their peers, potentially in a variety of areas of IE and institution/organization types.

JOIN THE PROGRAM

Now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 cohort! The application is open until May 30, 2025.

Orientation is the official start of the Mentorship Program including meeting your cohort, receiving details about the program, and an interactive workshop on how to make the most of the program. Orientation (in-person or virtual) is mandatory for all participants and will be announced once you sign up.

Mentors
Benefits: Leadership skills development; fresh perspective on the field; giving back to the international ed community; job satisfaction, empowerment, and validation; networking opportunities
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Responsibilities: Commit to 1 year of volunteer service; assist mentee in goal-setting; set goals for mentoring relationship; connect with mentee(s) monthly through guided conversations; complete quarterly reflections/feedback; attend IEI functions with mentee(s)
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Qualifications: 3+ years of IE experience; knowledge of specific KC preferred
Mentees
Benefits: Career exploration and planning; professional skills development; deepen understanding of the field; goal setting; moral support; transitional guidance
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Responsibilities: Commit to 1 year of volunteer participation; goal setting for yourself and for mentoring relationship; connect with mentor and/or cohort monthly through guided conversations; complete quarterly reflections/feedback; attend IEI functions with mentor/cohort

Qualifications: IE career changer, new professional, or grad student; interest in specific KC preferred