From the mouths of mentors/mentees.

• Position: Showmethe way

Here are some firsthand experiences with mentor programs from mentors and mentees.

Mentor Vyra Olson-Pacheco (GBP&P):

"Being a mentor has allowed me to stay in touch with the lower leveled staff and the issues they are facing as they grow professionally and personally. In turn, it has enabled me to remember these issues as I deal with other staff."

Mentee Chris Delaney, CPA (GBP&P):

"The mentor program has provided me insight on what I can expect one year, two years and beyond in my career. At various points over these past three years, I have turned to my mentor to help guide me through such questions as 'What to expect from the firm after I pass the CPA?' and 'How should I approach an annual review?' I have become more confident and developed more realistic expectations. While I chose my mentor several years back because he was a few steps ahead of me professionally and we had developed a friendship, the mentorship experience has strengthened those bonds and given me a great resource."

Mentee Sara Young (Sensiba San Filippo LLP): "On the first day that I met my mentor he told me that he wanted me to learn to read his mind. I laughed at the time, thinking that was impossible; however, over the next six months we worked side by side nearly every day and I got to a point where I could practically do just that. I remember the first day I went out to a client with him as the senior and he would give me small...