A mentor isn’t a substitute for professional UX training

A mentor can help explain core UX topics, clarify concepts, and guide you through tools and best practices. They can suggest learning resources, share real-world context, and help connect theory to everyday design work. However, mentoring alone cannot replace professional UX training or certification, which offers structured learning, hands-on practice, and recognized credentials that help users stand out in the job market.

What mentoring does add is practical, situational support. For example, a mentor can review a portfolio case study and point out gaps in problem framing, help rework confusing flows in a real project, or explain why a design decision might not work in a team setting. They can also help you prepare for interviews, talk through feedback from hiring managers, or navigate common workplace challenges.

This kind of applied guidance complements formal learning and helps mentees turn knowledge into job-ready skills faster.