SIUE Career Development Center is Seeking Alumni Mentors
For many college students, choosing a major or career focus can present feelings of uncertainty. SIUE students are fortunate to have resources on campus at the Career Development Cen ter (CDC) to guide them in this process. They also benefit from the opportunity to be part of the SIUE Mentor Program.
Alumni are encouraged to participate in the SIUE Mentor Program. You can support their future success by sharing your professional and personal experiences and expertise with current SIUE students. A minimal amount of your time can make a tremendous difference in the life of a student.
While the SIUE Mentor Program is focused on the professional development of students, both students and mentors benefit from personal growth. Serving as a mentor is a fulfilling and positive experience for Bree Harms, ’05 BS Mass Communications. Harms is a legal marketing specialist at Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. in St. Louis.
“SIUE provided me with a comprehensive educational experience. Serving as a mentor is a way for me to express my gratitude to the University,”
Harms mentors two students who completed their freshman year in May 2016. The students have different majors, but both have an emphasis in marketing.
“We meet regularly over coffee to discuss their classes and life in general,” Harms said.
“They like to hear my college stories and professional experiences alike.
“Though it was several years ago, I have walked in their shoes. Something about that resonates with them, and I think it keeps them focused on their goals; they understand life doesn't end at graduation.”
“Students who are seeking out mentor relationships have a strong interest in becoming more engaged in their field of study and career path,” said Carrie Smolar, assistant director for employer relations in the CDC.
Smolar and Eileen Martindale, career counselor in the CDC, work collaboratively with students to identify their professional goals and match them with mentors.
“We help connect students with a professional who has faced the same questions while attending college,” Martindale said. “SIUE alumni are an exceptional resource to our students.”
The Career Development Center is currently seeking new mentors from all industries.
Volunteers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and three years of professional experience.
More information
618-650-3708
careerdevelopmentcenter@siue.edu
