PennGSE offers a Student Alumni Mentoring program which we call SAM, it connects the student mentees and alumni mentors together and to provide mutual learning to both sides.
The first kick-off event of SAM was held on Sept.22nd, many of the alumni mentors came while some cannot make it since they were not around at the time. The atmosphere was great. Students are trying to talk to those alumni who can potentially be their mentors. And what surprised me was that the alumni were very enthusiastic to talk to students and share their past experiences.
The kick-off speaker was Dr. Marybeth Gasman, who gave us an amazing speech about her experience of being both a mentor and a mentee. She shared her story with her three mentors in her life. They gave her academic advices as well as the everyday life suggestions, and many of her mentor's words had really changed her life and have been guiding her even her mentor has already passed away. Besides, as a mentor as well, she shared what she expects and don't expects from her mentees. She told us a few anecdotes that her mentees has disappointed her or made her feel uncomfortable.
I talked to an alumni Stephanie who was dual-majored in both ICC and Higher Education Management and she shared her experiences in school years as well as the work that she's been doing now to several ICC students including me. I found her experience very fascinating but because of the time limitation, I didn't have a personal deep talk with her. But still, If I can find a mentor like her, I believe that I will have a lot to learn. That's why I really think SAM program is a very good way for students to get connected with the alumni and better prepared for the future.
You can find more information about SAM at:
http://www.gse.upenn.edu/mentor/student-signup