The second annual Mentorship Day is being held during Homecoming and Family Weekend. This event brings together our successful alumni and students for a day of learning, networking, and inspiration.
Mentorship Day is a chance to learn and connect with experts and leaders in their fields. See the benefits of Mentorship Day and check out our events happening below!
Check-in on the day of runs from 8:30 to 10:15 a.m. All sessions below re-occur in two time slots throughout the day. Please click the button above to sign up through AUConnect.
Schedule of Events
Event
Time
Location
Check-in for Alumni Mentors & Students Coffee and Light Breakfast
8:30 - 9:10 a.m.
Olin Building
Concurrent Panels 1-4
9:20 - 10:10 a.m.
Olin Building classrooms
Concurrent Sessions 5-7 & AI Workshop
10:20 - 11:10 a.m.
Olin Building classrooms
Keynote Speaker
11:20 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
Miller Theater
Lunch
12:30 - 1:10 p.m.
Ade Hall
Concurrent Panels 1-4
1:20 - 2:10 p.m.
Olin Building classrooms
Concurrent Panels 5-7 & AI Workshop
2:20 - 3:10 p.m.
Olin Building classrooms
Alumni-Mentor Social Event for all students, faculty, staff and alumni presenters
Recognized in the book “Everyday Heroes: 50 Americans Changing the World One Nonprofit at a Time,” and recently honored by Advancing States with the 2019 Arthur Fleming Award, Enid Borden is an astonishing woman, an inspiring leader, and the preeminent authority on senior hunger in America.
Non-profits are tax-exempt organizations that funnel excess revenue toward advancing their mission. Panelists will discuss the mission of their organization and how it helps improve the lives of individuals and their communities. They will discuss how their passion/desire to serve led to their position and how the work continually motivates them. Non-profits go beyond education and religious organizations. Medical and other research, the arts, engineering, even AI.
Breaking glass ceilings can be tiring; get some energy hearing from your female peers. This panel will share their career journey as well as insights and strategies on navigating the workplace as a woman.
Landing the right opportunity takes more than just a strong résumé — it requires confidence, strategy, and communication. This panel willcover the essential skills you will need to navigate key stages of your professional journey: acing interviews, building meaningful networks and negotiating offers with confidence.
Career paths are rarely straight lines; they twist, turn, and evolve as we grow. Dive into the realities of navigating career transitions, whether switching industries, pursuing a new passion, or adapting to unexpected changes. Hear from professionals who have successfully reinvented themselves, taken bold risks, and learned valuable lessons. With practical advice and candidreflections, this conversation will empower you to embrace change with confidence, clarity, and curiosity.
Being the first in your family to attend college is a powerful achievement and a unique journey. This panel brings together first-generation students and graduates who have navigated the challenges of higher education while breaking new groundfor themselves and their families. Panelists will share the strategies, support systems, and mindset shifts that helped them succeed, as well as the obstaclesthey overcame along the way.
Panelists
Antonio Williams '06
Christie Swarts '96
Chris Gause, Director of the Center for Academic Success
Moderated By
Gabe Iturbides, Assistant Vice President for Student Success
Many graduates end up in career fields that are not directly (or even remotely) tied to their AU major, yet their education has been instrumental in preparing them for work. Panelists will discuss how their AU education prepared them for their careers, even if those careers are not the ones they originally anticipated.
Community engagement isn'tjust about giving back — it's about growing forward. In this panel, leaders, mentors, and changemakers will share personal stories and practical insights on how meaningful involvement in their communities has shaped their careers, expanded their networks, and deepened their sense of purpose.
AI is reshaping howwe search, apply, and prepare for careers. Knowing how to use it effectively can give you a powerful edge. This hands-on workshop will cover how to leverage AI tools to enhance your job search strategy, from crafting tailored résumés and cover letters to preparing for interviews and exploring new career paths. We'll also discuss best practices, ethical considerations, and how to critically evaluate AI-generated content. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your approach, this session will teach you how to make AI your career co-pilot.
During this session, students will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one discussions with alumni on a variety of topics. Alumni will be set up in the lobby of Harder Hall, allowing students to rotate through numerous groups and discussions. Take the opportunity to share thanks to our alumni for their participation and enjoy some free food!
Benefits of Mentorship Day
Gain real-world Knowledge
Speakers share insights from their professional journeys, offering you a glimpse into the realities of various industries and roles.
Expand Your Network
Build connections that can lead to internships, job opportunities and lasting professional relationships that can benefit you throughout your career.
Receive Guidance
Alumni understand the unique challenges students face. They can offer advice on career planning, skill development, and job search strategies.
Find Inspiration
Listening to alumni stories of success and perseverance can motivate you to pursue your goals with renewed determination and confidence.
Create Lifelong Connections
The relationship you form can evolve into enduring mentorship and friendships, providing ongoing support and encouragement.
Students interested in attending can sign up through AUConnect. Alumni, faculty, and staff members interested in attending should contact Jessica Doner.