Summary:
This section really emphasizes the importance a mentor can have on someone’s apprenticeship. Guidance from someone who has already experienced the same or similar issues that you are going through is invaluable. On top of that, it establishes what realistic expectations one should have for a mentor. With computer science being such a vast field that is only getting larger, it’s unrealistic to expect one person to know everything about every topic. The last major point the section covers is that the flow of knowledge does not stop at you. An apprentice must be willing and able to pass on knowledge to other apprentices.
Reflection:
Thinking back to my most impactful teachers and professors, it’s clear to see that their impact comes from their ability to mentor their students. Having those impactful mentors throughout my education is what inspired me to seek a career in computer science. The best example I can come up with to relate the impact a mentor can have on an apprentice is this: Imagine trying to solve a hidden picture puzzle or “Where’s Waldo” and you can’t seem to figure it out. Having a mentor is like having a magnifying glass to help narrow down where you should be looking. This sense of direction is great to focus your efforts into researching helpful information. Considering how large the computer science field has grown.
When it comes to choosing a mentor in the computer science field, it is important to realize how large the field is. I have said it three times now, and I still don’t think that is enough to emphasize it. It is best to try and find a mentor that specializes in the field you want to learn about. Although, from my experiences, a mentor that does not specialize in the same field as you is still worth having. A mentor that specializes in any field can still give you tips on how they got to where they are. With the same mentality of teaching a person to fish over giving them a fish, learning how to learn is better than being taught something directly. With information so readily at our fingertips, the ability to research and find solutions is crucial in our world and especially the computer science field.
Bringing everything full circle is the idea that what separates an apprentice from a journeyman is the responsibility to help teach and mentor other apprentices. It makes sense that as I continue down the long path that there will be others behind me. I, personally, have always loved the spark that my mentors have ignited in me and it would be great to be able to pass that sling to others in the future.
CS Learning 