Most of us can think of people in our lives, more experienced than ourselves, who have supplied information, offered advice, presented a challenge, initiated friendship, or simply expressed an interest in our development as a person. Without their intervention we may have remained on the same path, perhaps continuing a horizontal progression through our academic, career, or personal lives. Today, mentoring is associated with a variety of activities including teaching, counseling, sponsoring, role modeling, job shadowing, academic and career guidance, and networking. DO-IT, primarily funded by the National Science Foundation and the State of Washington, serves to help young people with disabilities successfully transition to challenging academic programs and careers, including science, engineering, mathematics, and technology. Most DO-IT Mentors are college students, faculty, practicing engineers, scientists, or other professionals who have disabilities.
Proteges are high school students who are making plans for post-secondary education and employment.
They all have disabilities including vision, hearing, mobility, and health impairments, and specific learning disabilities. Frequent electronic communications and personal contacts bring DO-IT proteges and mentors together to facilitate academic, career, and personal achievements. New mentors are given tips for getting started. Share your personal interests, hobbies, academic interests, career path. Introducing proteges to mentors with similar disabilities is a strength of the DO-IT program.