[wpietri]

I have mentored people, some casually and a couple for long periods. It can be great.

I would say that you shouldn't approach people and ask them to be a mentor. If you did that with me, I'd definitely be put off; it would seem like a lot to ask from a stranger, and since you didn't know me it would be clear that asking was all about you.

However, I think it's perfectly fine to ask for modest amounts of advice. I get that a fair bit, and I try to accommodate people whenever I can. If you do that and it seems to be pleasant and beneficial to both of you, I think it's reasonable to ask for more advice. Keep that up and a mentor relationship might develop very naturally.

[hhenn]

Good point. I think finding a mentor will need to happen organically (if it does at all). I'm glad that there are even a few people right here who actively mentor other people and find it meaningful - I think I would, too (which means I'll be being selfish again on the opposite side of it...)