A mentor does
Sits with you on position, watches how you handle real traffic, points out what to do differently, and tells you honestly when you're ready.
Mentoring
What a mentor does, and what they don't
A mentor takes the theory you have already learnt and helps you put it into practice on a live position. That is the whole job. It is a narrower role than people expect, and being clear about it is what keeps mentoring sustainable for the volunteers who do it.
A mentor doesn't
Teach the syllabus, re-explain material covered in the course, chase you for availability, or manage your motivation. That is your side of the deal.
Getting assigned
When you complete the theory course for a tier and pass its exam, you join the mentoring queue for that tier. Staff pair you with a mentor based on availability and timezone. You will not be assigned before the theory is done.
Making a session worth it
Turn up having done the reading. Bring specific questions. Be ready to be corrected on the frequency. Sessions are logged with a short report so both of you can see what to work on next time.