Mentoring Scholar-Practitioners: What It Is, and What It Isn't

Mentoring scholar-practitioners, especially those navigating the demanding terrain of an EdD program, is a meaningful commitment, but it must be approached with care, clarity, and humility. At The EdD Project, we believe in developmental mentoring, not prescriptive mentoring, and knowing when you can and cannot afford to take on a mentoring relationship.

Developmental vs. Prescriptive Mentoring

Prescriptive mentoring is top-down. The mentor directs, instructs, and assumes the role of expert. This can be helpful in narrow or technical contexts, but it leaves little room for nuance, discovery, or personal growth. Developmental mentoring, on the other hand, invites the mentee into a shared learning experience. It is:

• Collaborative: built on mutual respect and listening.
• Supportive: rooted in the mentee’s unique goals and identity.
• Reflective: encouraging self-awareness and confidence, not dependency.

This approach is essential for EdD students, whose work often spans practice, theory, and social impact. They don’t need someone to tell them what to do; they need someone to walk with them.

Knowing When (and When Not) to Mentor

Being a good mentor also means being honest with yourself. Ask:

• Do I have the time and emotional energy to support someone right now?
• Am I drawn to this mentee’s journey, not just their résumé?
• Will this relationship serve both of us, intellectually and humanely?

Sometimes, saying “not right now” is the most respectful thing you can do for yourself and the mentee. The right mentor relationship should never feel transactional or forced; it should feel like trust in motion.

The Role of Humility in Mentoring

True mentors aren’t superheroes; they’re humans. They don’t show up to impress; they show up to serve. Remaining humble means:

• Admitting you don’t have all the answers
• Listening more than you speak
• Welcoming pushback and new ideas
• Celebrating a mentee’s growth without needing credit

Humility makes room for the mentee’s voice. It models the leadership we hope EdD students bring into their institutions, classrooms, and communities. At The EdD Project, we remind every mentor: You’re not here to make someone like you. You’re here to help someone become more fully themselves.

Closing Thoughts

Mentoring scholar-practitioners is a sacred opportunity, but it’s not about status, control, or ego. It’s about co-creating a space for becoming. A developmental mentor honors the journey, remains teachable, and knows when to step in and when to step back. The EdD Project is here to walk with you if you’re ready to mentor with humility, reflection, and care.