Definitions

A role model is a person whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people. The term role model is credited to sociologist Robert K. Merton, who coined the phrase during his career.

A person who is helped by a mentor (= a person who gives a younger or less experienced person help and advice over a period of time, especially at work or school):
Discussions between the mentor and mentee are not shared with the school administration.

Mentorship is a relationship in which a more experienced or more knowledgeable person helps to guide a less experienced or less knowledgeable person. The mentor may be older or younger than the person being mentored, but he or she must have a certain area of expertise. It is a learning and development partnership between someone with vast experience and someone who wants to learn. Interaction with an expert may also be necessary to gain proficiency with/in cultural tools. Mentorship experience and relationship structure affect the ‘amount of psychosocial support, career guidance, role modelling, and communication that occurs in the mentoring relationships in which the proteges and mentors engaged.’

An advisor, counselor, or guide to a junior or trainee active in a training system seen often in companies for employees. A senior or more experienced individual is the assigned mentor. Providing support to, and feedback on, the individual assigned is a mentor’s responsibility.

A person who gives a younger or less experienced person help and advice over a period of time, especially at work or school…