Starting your journey at UMGC can feel like an uphill climb. However, obtaining your degree or certification is just the beginning. Transitioning from academia to the professional world might seem overwhelming, but mentorship can be a valuable asset for both students and alumni in reaching long-term career goals. Embracing mentorship can turn challenges into opportunities in your academic and professional life.
While quick networking opportunities are crucial, a mentor can offer invaluable individual attention. With their experience, you can gather information about your questions, understand college life better, and get unique career advice. Some benefits of a mentor relationship are:
- Getting advice about classes, career paths, and job choices.
- Addressing questions and situations affecting your schooling, skills, and career goals.
- Setting milestones and staying accountable.
Keep in mind that every mentor/mentee relationship is different. It's essential to know what to expect and recognize when your needs aren't being met. It’s okay to find a new mentor as engaging with the right mentor can significantly benefit your career development.
UMGC Mentor Programs
UMGC offers various mentorship programs for current students and graduates:
- Community Connect Network:
- Search among 16,000+ industry professional alumni for career guidance.
- Alumni can link their LinkedIn accounts allowing easier CareerQuest profile updates.
- Filter your search based on major, industry, position title, location, and more to strategically target mentors.
- One2One Mentorship Program:
- Provides individualized, peer-to-peer support to veterans, servicemembers, and their families—and offers opportunities for mentors and mentees to develop and maintain long-term positive relationships.
- Mentors can provide guidance on navigating veterans benefits as well as career advice, encouragement, and general support to help the military and veteran community successfully transition from the military to UMGC's academic experience and civilian life.
- Graduate Mentor Program: Integrated into your program of study or available as an option for students pursuing further degrees.
How To Be a Good Mentee
Mentors are volunteers, so respect their time and advice. Here are a few tips and advice to ensure a productive and rewarding conversation:
- Be prepared for meetings.
- Keep discussions private.
- Maintain a professional boundary; a mentor is not your therapist.
- Keep appointments and inform your mentor if you need to cancel ahead of time.
- Apply the advice you receive and share the results with your mentor.
- Send a thank you note demonstrating your appreciation of their time.
Seeking guidance from an UMGC alumni mentor offers essential support and can deepen your understanding of various industries aiding in your professional growth. It can also provide you with an opportunity to cultivate a unique and beneficial relationship. The right mentor can help you turn challenges into opportunities while also offering guidance and encouragement. By taking advantage of UMGC's mentorship opportunities, you can build meaningful connections that enhance your educational journey and pave the way for a successful career.
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