Tuesday’s Big Idea

Back to School

No matter what field you choose to enter -- whether it is finance or the arts -- you will benefit greatly from the guidance of a mentor.

Mentors perform a variety of duties for you, whether it is teaching you about a specific issue in business or life; helping you develop a particular skill; opening up networks and resources that will facilitate your growth and challenging you to move out of your comfort zone.

And yet, one of the most fundamental tasks of a mentor is to provide empathy. After all, as the comedian Margaret Cho testifies to Big Think, the simple advice of someone who cares about you is something you will hold onto for life.

Back to School Advice from Margaret Cho: Find What You Love & Never Stop Doing It

by Jonathan Fowler and Elizabeth Rodd

Comedian Margaret Cho shares the best advise she was given in school, and why she keeps that simple advice -- never stop doing what you're doing -- to this day.

A Lesser-Known Influence in Obama’s Life

by David Remnick

Jerry Kellman spent countless hours with the President eating at McDonald's and talking about life.

Putting the "Men" Back in "Mentor"

by Big Think Editors

To be successful in the 21st century, it's more important to know what to say to whom, when, and under what circumstances, and for what purpose.

Goodbye Gordon Gekko. Wall Street Needs Real Mentors.

by Daniel Honan

A good one might advise you not to wear a polyester suit to an interview at Goldman Sachs. He might also help guide you through the moral and ethical mine field that is Wall Street.