Area Business Mentors Assist WITC-Hayward Students

Statistics show that 50 percent of all two-year college students and 25 percent of all four-year college students fail or drop out during the first year of school. To help combat this issue, this year WITC-Hayward is matching several adult students with area business leaders to assist them through the rigors of working, raising a family and re-entering academic life.

The purpose of these relationships is to encourage and support the adult student working toward a higher education degree. Mentoring provides an opportunity for individuals to have a positive influence on another, and in this case, help students become aware of career opportunities, work ethics, and the importance of positive self-esteem.

Three employees from the Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and one from Peoples Bank of Wisconsin have offered their assistance in this demanding, yet rewarding, process. However, there are other WITC students who would benefit from this program and business leaders who feel they could be a mentor are asked to volunteer. There are no specific skills required to assume the role of adult mentor, only a strong desire to lead and support. An individual may be a great mentor if:

You are willing to share your expertise with another adult who can benefit greatly from your support
You can assist another in becoming a strong contributing member of our community and society
You can help another adult gain confidence and increase self esteem
You are willing to try opening doors for another

Those interested in volunteering to lend skills in this area, please contact Lynn Fitch at the WITC-Hayward branch campus at 715.634.5167 or e-mail lfitch@witc.edu