What are the best ways to be a great mentee in programming?

This is first and the most crucial step but also one should keep it mind that no one is going to stay for long. It upto how much value you can drive from their experience and learn in that duration. Although, Things are subject to the mentor's dedication towards mentoring.

Selecting a mentor is crucial; not all mentors are alike. Assess their time, skills, and compatibility. Research their profiles, portfolios, and reviews. Inquire about their background, goals, and availability. Find someone who aligns with your interests, needs, and values for a more effective and rewarding mentorship experience.

Be a great programming mentee by setting clear goals and seeking specific guidance. Proactively communicate progress and challenges to your mentor. Show initiative in problem-solving and research before seeking help. Respect your mentor's time and be prepared for meetings. Act on feedback and demonstrate a willingness to learn. Stay curious, ask thoughtful questions, and take ownership of your professional development. Foster a positive and open relationship, appreciating your mentor's insights while maintaining a proactive and self-driven approach to learning.

You can't learn anything if you are in a hurry. Everything takes time. One's goals should be realistic or else one may find it difficult to achieve. Consistency is the key here. Rather than putting bulk efforts, it is advisable to put little effort every day. Quality over Quantity is what is suggested.

Define your learning objectives and communicate them to your mentor. This helps your mentor tailor the guidance to your specific needs. Establish short-term and long-term goals to track your progress

Take initiative in your learning. Don't wait for your mentor to assign tasks; seek out opportunities to apply your skills and solve problems. Identify areas where you need guidance or clarification and bring them up with your mentor.

Value your mentor's time and be respectful of their schedule. Come to meetings well-prepared and focused on the topics at hand. If you have questions or need assistance, be concise and specific to make the most efficient use of your mentor's time.

Acknowledge and learn from your mistakes. Being honest about your errors allows you to address them promptly and demonstrates a commitment to improvement.

Be ready to accept new ideas. If you are certain that you are doing everything right, then no mentor can help you. Even if you doubt the quality of the advice, consider trying it anyway, if for no other reason than to confirm your assumption.