[guilhas]

I think having a mentor is essential. But a senior/lead/manager engineers ends up being sort of a mentor

I would say it is like visiting a new city, you can spend hours researching the best landmarks, attractions, events, night life, read online reviews, etc... But will probably not be better than just going with a local guide or friend. Guides offer immediate insight, right answers to the wrong questions, might share local stories/curiosities on subject. Take you to the best places, actually local and interesting, instead of the same old touristy attraction traps. Curate the visit for the time, and interests, you have. Adapt the journey to unexpected events... You might make friends, most time better than being the lone warrior on the road to nowhere

They'll help you better guide your career. Avoid workplace traps.

Young/new people tend to focus to much on showing off. Wasting endless time fixing every small or tangent problem because they can. But with the insight of the bigger picture it is easier to focus and produce relevant work that moves the company, career, and knowledge forward