USD Alumni Mentoring Program
Where Experience Meets Connection
The USD Alumni Mentoring Program connects current students (mentees) with USD alumni (mentors) through an easy-to-use platform called Qooper. Whether you're looking for a long-term mentoring relationship or just want to offer advice now and then, this program offers two flexible options to get involved. You can participate in one or both optionsand connect with fellow USD alumni to grow your own network.
Why Become a Mentor?
USD alumni get involved for many reasons, and often stay involved because the experience is so rewarding. Here are just a few benefits:
- Give back to USD: Share your knowledge and support students the way others supported you.
- Grow your leadership skills: Mentoring sharpens your coaching, communication and leadership abilities.
- Access exclusive learning: Explore mentorship topics like Life Design, LinkedIn Optimizations and more on the Qooper platform.
- Expand your network: Build relationships with students and fellow alumni.
- Stay connected to trends: Hear fresh perspectives from students and stay current with new ideas and innovations.
- Recruit future talent: Discover emerging professionals who align with your company's culture and values.
- Reflect on your own journey: Articulating your experiences can bring new clarity to your own career goals.
- Leave a legacy: Help shape USD's future by guiding the leaders of tomorrow.
- Teach outside the classroom: Enjoy the satisfaction of sharing knowledge in a meaningful, personal way.
How to Get Started
Matched Mentoring
Build a lasting connection. You'll be matched one-on-one with a student based on shared interests, experience and goals. Together, you'll work over 10-15 weeks (or longer, if you choose) to explore career paths, set goals and grow together. USD provides agendas, resources and support along the way.
Commitment: Plan for a 10-15 week engagement with one student. You set the pace togetherand you're welcome to mentor additional students in the future.
Resources and Support: Access structured agendas and talking points for up to six meetings. Qooper includes guides like Mentorship 101, Mentor Feedback Best Practices and more. Plus, our Career Coaches at the Center for Career Design are here to support you.
Join Today: Click the button below to create your profile and be considered for a match.
USD Alumni Quick Connect
Support students when they need quick, targeted advice. In this less formal option, students reach out to alumni with questions related to specific industries, career moves or life experiences. Some interactions may last 10 minutes or less but your impact can last a lifetime.
Commitment: Expect short, flexible interactions. A question might take just a few minutes to answer.
Resources and Support: Simply respond to students' questions as they come up. Qooper includes guides like Mentorship 101, Mentor Feedback Best Practices and more. Plus, our Career Coaches at the Center for Career Design are here to support you.
Join Today: Click the button below to create your profile and be available for student questions.
