Mentor Connection Online

An offering of Honors Mentor Connection

Academic immersion in the professional environment

Honors Mentor Connection (HMC), a rigorous academic course offering by Intermediate District 287's Gifted Education Services, is an opportunity for talented high school students to participate in advanced study in an area of interest under the guidance of an eminent professional in the field. Students apply and register through their school districts; their HMC grade will appear on their regular school transcript.

Students enroll in four .5-credit courses (A-B-C-D), which together constitute a two-hour block of time throughout the school year. Two full-year credits (4 semester or block credits) are awarded for the successful completion of the entire sequence.

Review Course Descriptions and subject areas.

Important benefits beyond academics

HMC students develop an early professional reputation through a mutually beneficial mentor-protégé relationship, as they find ways in their day-to-day work at their mentorship sites to contribute to the mentor's goals.
Each HMC student develops a professional-level project that has real-world application.
HMC students build skills in the areas of professional development, personal development, and leadership.
Seminars build skills in advanced research, technical reading, and professional readiness.
A seminar speaking series features challenging speakers from the metropolitan-area professional and academic communities.
Experiences build a network of professionals and leaders -- and peers who are emerging professionals and leaders.

Qualities of successful HMC student candidates

Passionate interest in their subject area
Capacity for advanced study through rigorous experiential learning
Motivation to develop a professional project and a portfolio demonstrating academic potential
Ethical standards and personal qualities that earn the respect and trust of colleagues
Courage to take risks, the wisdom to seek guidance, and the desire to make the experience mutually beneficial
Creative capacity for original thought and vision, for flexibility in new situations, and for making opportunities happen

For more in-depth information

Please read the HMC Summary Paper (PDF).