CAREER SERVICES MENTOR PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a Mentor?
What kind of information does a Mentor share?
How many Mentors can I contact?
What should I do before contacting a Mentor?
Is there anything more I should know about contacting a Mentor?
STUDENT QUESTIONS:
What is the purpose of a Mentor?
A Mentor is a University of Utah alumna or alumnus or other professional who is interested in networking with current University of Utah students and alumni. A mentor’s primary purpose is to contribute to a student’s career exploration. Mentors can share tips on finding and beginning a new job. They also can provide advice to students on getting into a particular career path and on possible careers related to certain majors. The Mentors should not be solicited directly for employment. They have volunteered to share their experience and knowledge with interested students. While resume critiquing, internships, job shadowing, meetings, and informational interviewing are possible outcomes of a student/mentor relationship, they cannot be guaranteed and should not be expected. Also, following up with your Mentor with a note, call, or e-mail of gratitude is highly encouraged. Everyone likes acknowledgement for their help and effort.
What kind of information does a Mentor share?
Mentors can share information about their present occupation and any previous relevant employment. They can also offer career related advice, their expertise, and information on their hobbies and interests. Students will benefit most from contacting Mentors who work in a career field that is interesting to them or who studied a similar major while they were attending the University of Utah.
Who uses the Mentor Program?
Current undergraduate students are the primary users of the Mentor Program. However, graduate students and University of Utah alumni (within the last 2 years) utilize this program for networking purposes as well.
How can I contact a Mentor?
In our UCareerLink database, mentors select their preferred method of contact. Initial contact can either be through email or a phone call. Some Mentors select not to have students contact them and simply post valuable information about their career path. The amount and type of contact is determined by the mentor and mentee.
How many Mentors can I contact?
You may contact Mentors a limited number of times. If you have exceeded your limit, a message will appear in place of the “Contact Mentor” button. Mentor information will always be available to you.
What should I do before contacting a Mentor?
Determine your purpose for contacting the mentor (professional, academic, personal) and do research by investigating the field or checking out the mentor’s company website. Plan your questions or agenda before you initially contact the mentor.
Be aware of your timing. Avoid calling Mentors at the end of the work day, during the lunch hour, or outside business hours. They might be more difficult to reach during those times. If your Mentor prefers email communication, expect to wait a few days before receiving a reply.
What should I ask a Mentor?
To ensure a successful initial contact with your Mentor, be sure to introduce yourself and tell a little about your background. Your questions for the mentor should be well thought out and prepared ahead of time. They should reflect your career-related interests and concerns, as well as the information you know about your Mentor. Examples of typical questions include:
- Are there degrees or programs you would recommend to someone to advance in this field?
- How important is Internship experience? Volunteer experience? Work experience?
- When should I start planning for my first career?
- Do you think you are working in a career field related to what you studied while in college?
- Could you describe a typical workday?
- What skills are required in your position on a day-to-day basis?
- What parts of your job do you find most challenging?
- Do you have any tips for finding a job in this career field?
- Do you have any suggestions for balancing work/family in this career field?
- Would you have done anything differently to prepare for your present career?
Is there anything else I should know about contacting a Mentor?
Please remember that you will be representing the University of Utah and all conversations and meetings with mentors should be conducted in a professional manner. Good impressions are key when networking.
How do I find a Mentor?
You must first register with UCareerLink. As a current student or recent alum (within the last 2 years) of the University of Utah, you have access to UCareerLink, the career search database system used by Career Services. Simply register with UCareerLink by following this link https://www.myinterfase.com/utah/studentregistration.aspx. If you need any assistance registering please call us at (801) 581-6186.
Once you have registered, login and you will be directed to your homepage. Along the top of the page you will see a link for the Mentor Program. Click on the link and begin searching!