Week 1 Assignment: Reflection on Podcast and Handout

After reading the handout and listening to the podcast about making a positive first impression and getting to know my mentor, I learned many points that are listed below:

~You need to have a positive attitude when you meet your mentor and co-workers.
~Smile, keep eye contact, offer a firm hand-shake, and tell your mentor your name.
~Let your positive attitude shine throughout every interaction you come in contact with.
~Dress professionally
~You should always speak louder than your clothes or acessories.
~Tell your mentor that you are excited about the opportunity to work with him or her and confirm it to them.
~Get to know your mentor with some "conversation starters," like "how did you choose your career?" and "What do you think is the most important factor in success?"
~Prepare to answer questions such as, "What can you tell me about you?" and "What is your goal from this mentorship?"
~Give examples of your achievements, interests and personality.
~Be honest and willing to talk to your mentor.
~It is better to ask questions before you dedicate time to doing something incorrectly.
~Take time to understand your company's protocall and if they use email or face-to-face conversation.
~Take initative on your tasks. You start with small tasks then ask for big tasks when you are ready to take it.
~Always arrive on time to your job.
~Listen to your mentor and follow his or her directions.
~Don't get attached to the "gossip girl"; take time to realize who are the hardworkers and who are the slackers.
~ Talk 20%, listen 80%
~ Track your accomplishments and show your boss what you have completed.
~You will be in the 'real world' and using 'real world' rules.

I envision from my mentorship the training and real-world experince I need to take to college and succeed in my potential major.  I want to get my feet wet in the field of Athletic Training and see if that is the major I want to study in college. The actions I will take to get the most of my experience will be to intitive to my mentor and complete every task they give me on time and with my full ability. I will follow their lead and not slack off on the job as well. This mentorship will prepare me for college because it will get my feet wet, like I stated earlier, in the field and see if I will enjoy it in the future.