Rainbow Compass

The LBGTQ+ Mentorship program aims to create a structured and trusting relationship between pairs of graduate and undergraduate LBGTQ+ MIT students (mentees) together with caring LBGTQ+ faculty/staff/alumni (mentors). The goal is to create a professional relationship where mentors provide guidance and encouragement while supporting the personal and professional development of the mentees through various matters. As a mentee, you may be seeking advice on navigating the many environments at MIT including living groups and housing, teaching and the classroom environment, advising and administration, recreation and athletics, or so many other elements not listed here. You may want to better understand your personal or social development. Perhaps you're at a point where you're thinking about contextualizing the professional environment and "being out", or generally finding life balance (yes, this is possible at MIT!).

Below you will find some helpful information about the program to see if it's a good fit for you.

WHAT IT PROVIDES:

  • Guidance, support, and advice from a positive role model
  • Answers related to the spectrum of diverse genders and sexual identities
  • A confidante and understanding ear
  • Resources, information, and access to "community" networks
  • Privacy and discretion, as desired or needed
  • A mutual and paraprofessional relationship of learning, growth, and development
  • A non-sexual and non-romantic relationship with someone who cares

WHAT IT DOES NOT PROVIDE:

  • Therapy
  • Absolute confidentiality
  • Replacement for close, personal friendships
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  • A dating service
  • Housing, meals, funding, and transportation

WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM MENTORS:

  • Concern, advice, and understanding
  • Help through the coming out process
  • Comparative information regarding what coming out has been like for others
  • Familiarity with gay, lesbian, bi, and trans issues
  • Adherence to MIT's Policy on Responsible and Ethical Conduct

WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM MENTEES:

  • To be on time
  • To attend appointments or cancel in a timely fashion
  • To communicate your needs or concerns in as open and honest a manner as possible
  • To realize that no question is too small or too embarrassing to be asked

Check out our FAQ page or e-mail Abigail Francis and/or Lauryn McNair at lbgt@mit.edu regarding any questions.

INTERESTED IN GETTING INOLVED:

Use the following form link If you would like to be a mentor or mentee for Fall 2019.