UNIVERSITY OF UTAH CAREER SERVICES

MENTOR PROGRAM

BECOME A MENTOR

We would like to invite you to participate in the University of Utah Career Services’ Mentor Program. This program provides students and alumni with a way to contact professionals already employed in their chosen field. The insights and experiences of a working professional can be invaluable to students and alumni. Being a mentor does not involve a major time commitment; rather, it simply indicates a willingness to speak to students and alumni about your field of expertise and how you succeeded in launching your career.

Our online system, UCareerLink, facilitates students and alumni contacting mentors via e-mail or phone. In some cases the information displayed is restricted to a brief overview of a volunteer on our mentor page. This system also allows mentors to select whether or not they want students to contact them directly, how many contacts students can make each month, etc.   

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of a Mentor?

A Mentor is a University of Utah alumna/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 may also provide advice to students about possible careers and particular career paths.

What are the advantages of becoming a Mentor?

Benefits for participating in the program include: 1) the opportunity to give valuable feedback to students; 2) that ability to help students reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationship; 3) the chance to show students the relevance of education as it pertains to the “real world” of work; 4) increased pride in your chosen career; 5) satisfaction gained through assisting someone in finding a rewarding career; 6) the opportunity to screen potential employees/interns.   

How much time should I expect to spend on the program?

It is entirely up to you and your schedule. In your mentor profile, you can select the maximum number of students you would like to have contact you per month. You may also choose which contact information you want to make available to students.

How often can I expect to be contacted by students?

This is up to you. You choose how much and which type of contact information you want to make available to students. You also select the maximum number of students you want to have contact you each month.

Keep in mind when selecting your maximum number that students are often "just looking" and may not contact you. Of course, if you work in a "hot" field or job market, you may receive more calls or e-mails than other mentors.

I don't work in Human Resources, and I'm not a recruiter. Will U of U students and alums think I'll be able to get them a job at my organization?

No. Students are advised not to use the Mentor Program to solicit employment opportunities from Mentors. Although internships, job shadowing, and informational interviews are possible outcomes of a student/mentor relationship, employment cannot be guaranteed and should not be expected. The purpose of this program is merely to facilitate communication between you, the Mentor, and students and alumni regarding your career field.

What information can I share with students through the program?

In your profile you have the opportunity to share information about your current employment, previous relevant employment, career-related advice, area of expertise, and hobbies/interests. If you are looking for students to fill Internship or employment positions, please take a look at our POST A JOB Website.   

How do I become a Mentor?

To become a Mentor, simply go to https://www.myinterfase.com/utah/mentor/ to register. If you need any assistance or have questions, please call us at (801) 581-6186. 

Thank you for your willingness to assist our students!