Professional Mentoring Program

Guiding Tomorrow's Business Leaders Through Mentorship

 

The OSU College of Business Professional Mentorship Program connects seasoned business professionals with current students to support key stages of professional growth, empowering them to navigate career paths and develop essential skills through transformative mentorship.

Here's how the program benefits you as a mentor:

  • Engaging with a thriving community of professionals committed to mutual success and lifelong learning
  • Making an impact by inspiring tomorrow’s leaders
  • Access to a Directory of OSU alumni and friends
    • Networking across industries
    • Developing a multi-generational connection with others
  • Access to Career Resources

The OSU College of Business Professional Mentorship Program, in collaboration with the OSU Alumni Association, utilizes the OSU Connections platform to enhance mentorship and networking within our College of Business community.

What does it mean to be a Mentor?

  • For each 10-week term (Fall, Winter, Spring), Mentor-Mentee pairs meet three times to discuss career alignment, skill development, career progression, and networking.

  • Mentors identify through an Interest Form (linked below), indicating availability for mentorship, the number of mentees they wish to support (1-3), career level and interests, geographical location, and specific demographics like first-generation status or work-study balance, in order to best match Mentors with Mentees.

  • Mentors are asked to do the following:

    • Meet with their assigned Mentee(s) three times per term (mentoring sessions can occur virtually or in-person)

    • Check off meeting "Milestones" in OSU Connections to confirm the Mentor-Mentee Sessions are taking place

    • Complete an End-of-Term Survey to provide feedback on the mentoring experiences in the program and with your mentee(s).

  • How we support our Mentors:

    • Provide various opportunities for engagement across the College of Business

    • Onboarding and training through a Start-of-Term Mentor Orientation

    • Offer check-ins after each Mentor-Mentee Session (optional support resource)

    • Online platform for engaging with other Mentors and Mentees

    • Access to mentoring tips and suggestions through Wednesday Wisdom Posts

  • What do Mentees gain from the program?

    • Actionable insights and real-world perspectives that are crucial for transitioning from classroom to career

    • Intentional connections to professionals in chosen fields and industries

    • Reinforcement of learning in workplace environments

    • Building a diverse professional network

    • Practical advice from those who want to share their experiences

    • The program highlights the importance of mentorship and encourages graduates to become mentors, fostering ongoing growth and inspiration within the College of Business at OSU.

Become a Mentor

step 1

Join the College of Business Community of Mentors by completing the
Mentor Interest Form.

step 2

Create your Mentor Profile on OSU Connections.

  • Create your profile by signing in with your Google or LinkedIn account

  • When creating your profile, please select “Participate in formal College of Business Mentoring Program” under “Offer Mentoring"

  • Please update your profile with your past experiences. A more complete profile helps us match you more effectively with your mentees.

step 3

Please add Carla.Mandell@Oregonstate.edu to your safe senders list for orientation information and program communications.

Enjoy being a Mentor!

Real Stories, Real Impact

"This was my third term participating as a mentor and I have thoroughly enjoyed all my experiences with this program during its inaugural year. I love being able to give back to Oregon State which helped set me up to achieve great things in my career, and also provide wisdom and insight for students that I wish I had when I was in their shoes.”

-Mentor: Matthew Kerr, Accounting, Class of 2016

“I've been having great mentor sessions with my mentee, who is driven, comes to every meeting with an update on her action items, and sets action items for herself every meeting. I’ve really been enjoying it!”

-Mentor: Cody Stover, Marketing, Class of 2015

“My participation in this program has been incredibly rewarding. Beyond the valuable insights I've received from my mentor, the experience has provided me with a deeper understanding of my strengths and areas for growth. Engaging in these meaningful discussions has boosted my confidence and motivation to pursue my goals."

-Mentee: Alma Quintanar, Business Administration, Sophomore, Exp. Graduation 2026

“My mentor provided me with guidance and support, always available to answer my questions, offer advice, and help me navigate the challenges I faced. He helped me develop important skills, encouraged me to pursue my passions, and pushed me to reach my full potential."

-Mentee: Meagan Caldwell, Business Administration, Junior, Exp. Graduation 2025

Additional Resources

OSU Connection Resources