No. The balance of it is better, but it doesn't make any sense. You used to be able to tell someone "Learn from this guy" and he would try to learn from that guy. Now all you can do is tell someone "Hang out with these people" and then you have no further say in how they develop.

The fact they can just wake up one day with a new trait that takes 6 months to get rid off again, as if no one ever watched this guy in training and could see it taking shape is ridiculous. The fact you can't tell communicate with players their weaknesses and what you want them to improve in is ridiculous. The whole "hang out with these people" should be a natural part of the game you can't influence, based on social circles and relationships. It shouldn't be part of mentoring.