Career Connections volunteers, or mentors, teach students the value of networking through sharing their professional experiences and industry insight. Mentors may offer short or long-term guidance via e-mail, phone, or in person.

The program offers volunteers much freedom and choice around how they choose to share their time and expertise. There are various opportunities to participate and all volunteers are encouraged to find career events and activities that fit within their availability and interest. These opportunities are regularly posted through the alumni events page or through the Career Connections e-newsletters, published once per semester.

Click here to read the Career Connections article featured in the Winter 2010 Valley Magazine. 

Mentor Job Description

The role you play as a Career Connections mentor has significant potential for influencing students. Mentors are asked to abide by the following expectations:

• Maintain your profile: Keep an up-to-date profile, including current e-mail address and job information. 
  

• Give Advice: Students may ask you to provide career advice on resume writing, career exploration, the job search process, etc. Be available and willing to help them with these questions, or refer them to others, when needed.  You are not expected to be an expert on all career related matters.

• Stay informed: Read the Career Connections e-newsletters to stay informed on current happenings with the program, plus additional career volunteer opportunities.
  

• Set an example: Be a professional example for students to learn from.

• Be Honest: Communicate honestly and respectfully with students when answering questions or providing advice.

• Provide Feedback: Give feedback to Career Connections staff about the program, participants, and your experiences.

• Know that you are playing an important role as a mentor, helping students in their career development!