IT Mentor Program

The Institute of Technology Mentor Program matches current science and engineering students with professionals in technical fields. These volunteer mentors help students prepare for the transition from the academic environment to the professional world. IT's award-winning program has connected thousands of students and mentors since its inception in 1991.

Registration now open

Overview

IT sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students are eligible to participate in the mentor program. Freshmen are encouraged to wait a year to gain academic experience and perspective.

Students and mentors must meet at least two hours per month from October through April. Students and mentors who register for the program are expected to honor their commitment and maintain regular contact each month. Participants who fail to do so will be dropped from the program.

Students identify their goals for career exploration and take the initiative in the relationship. Mentors provide advice and information and share ideas with the next generation of leaders in science and technology. Training and support is provided by the IT Alumni Society (ITAS).

The program is organized by the IT Alumni Society in collaboration with the IT dean's office and the UMAA Mentor Connection. The mentor program involves approximately 450 students and mentors annually. Local businesses, including corporate sponsors, donate resources to support the mentor program.

Orientation and activities

Some mentors participate remotely by email and telephone. Local participants may meet on campus or at the mentor's workplace. Activities may include networking, e-mentoring, sharing ideas, touring a company or work site, attending professional meetings, reviewing resumes, and discussing career strategies.

The mentor program begins with an orientation session in the fall and in the spring. This year's reception will be at 6:00 p.m. on October 23, 2007 and concludes with the Mentor Connection Appreciation Reception Wednesday, April 16, 2008. IT and the University of Minnesota Alumni Association (UMAA) Mentor Connection sponsor several other activities during the year for students and their mentors.