FAQ For Alumni

Why should I participate in the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program?
UCLA students are willing and eager to learn from your professional and personal experiences. We want to ensure that they are prepared in every aspect possible upon graduating from UCLA and enter the workforce. With your wisdom and guidance, we can work together to make sure UCLA students get the most out of their education by connecting with the best part of UCLA – the UCLA alumni network. In the spirit of Bruins helping Bruins, we hope the mentorship provides lasting relationships that will continue to grow and evolve far beyond Westwood.

What type of experience do I need to have in order to serve as a mentor?
The UCLA Alumni Mentor Program is designed to engage alumni volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Throughout the year we’ll offer tips on effective mentorship techniques, topics to discuss with your student and activities to connect you and your student. Our team will also be standing by to answer any questions you might have. Prior mentorship experience is not required.

How many students can I mentor?
We recommend you mentor 1 – 2 students throughout the year. Most of our volunteers choose to mentor one student.

How long is the commitment?
The mentor program lasts for the academic year (October -June). Mentor matches will be made in October and you’ll receive a personalized message from your student once a match is made. We hope that you’ll connect on a regular basis throughout the academic year.

What if I want to continue mentoring the student beyond the academic year?
Alumni are welcome to continue mentoring their students as long as they are willing and able.

Are events and program activities mandatory?
Events and programs are not required. The great thing about this program is that your mentorship connection can be carried out as the mentor and mentee see fit. However, we do encourage you to attend as my program activities as possible to build a strong connection with your student.

How will a mentor match be made?
Once you sign up for the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program you’ll be part of our exclusive, online mentoring community. Starting in October, UCLA students will have a chance to register and review mentor profiles to find a mentor who fits their interests and career goals. Once a student finds the ideal mentor, the student will click on the profile and send a message to request mentorship.

How do I register to become a mentor?
Registration for alumni volunteers occurs at our online platform, UCLA ONE in early fall.