Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hey Mentor?
Hey Mentor is a free online college and career mentorship program. 11th and 12th grade students who sign up with our program will be match with a college mentor. Mentors will provide college and career guidance for students through online platforms such as Facebook.
Who are college mentors?
College mentors are primarily current college students or recent college graduates.
Why should I use Hey Mentor?
Hey Mentor was created for students who lack resources and support in college readiness. The college application process is a daunting process especially for first-generation college students. With Hey Mentor, you are a able to get all your questions answered by someone who has gone through the process. Hey Mentor is not meant to substitute your in-school resources, it is an alternative solution for students who are unable to benefit from services due to personal obligations. For example, many students are unable to receive college guidance from after school programs because of work, sports, or other extracurricular activities. By having an online service provider, students can get support anywhere and on their own time.
Who is eligible for Hey Mentor?
Most of our students are 11th and 12th grade students. We serve the underserved – including young people from low-income families, students of color, foster youth and first-generation college students. At this time we do not provide mentoring for students below grade 11.
When can I sign up?
Students can sign up during our fall or spring recruitment season. Fall: September 1st - October 31st. Spring: April 1st - June 30th.
Is Hey Mentor free?
Hey Mentor is completely free for all students.
How will students be matched with their mentors?
When students sign up they will complete a survey that will allow us to better match students and mentors based on both career interests and personal background.
Can I switch mentors?
Students are typically unable to switch mentors unless a report has been filed to Hey Mentor between the student and mentor with valid reasons for changing mentors.
How will mentors communicate with students?
Mentors will communicate with their students primarily through Facebook, Skype, text/call, email, or other social messaging platforms. We recommend that students use Facebook Messenger as it is easier for mentors to receive notifications on Facebook. Mentors are also allowed to text or call students if the student indicates that he/she is okay with texting/calling. For students located near the greater Seattle area, mentors may also meet with students at a public space for in-person support such as a library, coffee shop, or school.
Will I receive support in person?
Hey Mentor is primarily an online service with the exception of additional in-person support and workshops for students located in or near the greater Seattle area where our office is located. We do allow mentors and students to meet in-person, however we require that mentors do not transport students and mentors must meet their student in a public location such as a library or school.
I've submitted an application, how long do I have to wait to hear back?
Students who have submitted an application should expect to receive a friend request on Facebook from their mentor within a week. If our mentors do not reach out to you within one week please contact info@heymentor.org.
How do I report my mentor for inappropriate behavior?
At Hey Mentor, we respect your safety and we do not condone any behavior that may put your safety in jeopardy. At any moment if you feel like you are being harassed, verbally assaulted, threatened, or if you are witnessing unprofessional remarks from our mentors please email info@heymentor.org with a screenshot of your chat. In your email please write "Report" in the subject. Your report will remain anonymous.