Mentors need to be proactive in helping the newer teacher to anticipate the critical episodes that inevitably face any teacher. These episodes include the challenge to manage a daunting workload while following habits necessary to stay healthy; to recover from disappointments, errors, and disrespect; to form positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and supervisors; and to connect with other committed teachers. While the journey to becoming an English teacher can be a haphazard and trying experience, a lot of people can help along the way, and beginners can do much to help themselves. Mentors can help new teachers to position themselves in the collaborative relationships that deliver the benefits of experience. Ultimately, emerging teachers will want to connect with a community of other teachers to promote their own growth and satisfaction and to advance the learning and positive experience of all the learners in their classrooms.