Alumni Mentor Program |

Bruins helping Bruins

Established by the UCLA Alumni Scholars Club and now in its 14th year, the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program continues to foster meaningful relationships between UCLA alumni and current UCLA students. The connections made in this program help prepare our students for a successful future and leave a lasting impact on our campus community.

Alumni

You have the opportunity to share your professional and personal experience and expertise with current UCLA students.

Become a Mentor

Students

You have exclusive access to a robust network of alumni who are eager and willing to meet you and share their wisdom and advice about life beyond UCLA.

Learn More

Alumni Mentors

About the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program

In the spirit of Bruins helping Bruins, the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program enables alumni to share their professional and personal experience and expertise with current UCLA students. The connections made in the program help prepare our students for a successful future and leave a lasting impact on our campus community.

As an alumni mentor, you will have the opportunity to advise student(s) on academic guidance, career advice and personal development for the academic year (October to June). We encourage mentors and mentees to connect on a regular basis (i.e. once a month phone call, in person meeting, or email conversation). However, the frequency and form of communication are things you both can determine. Opportunities to interact through the program will include virtual discussions, networking events and workshops, UCLA athletic events, and volunteer opportunities.

Alumni do not have to be on campus to leave a footprint at UCLA. Whether you are right down the street or across the globe, we invite alumni from around the world to be part of the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program.

Key Dates – 2018-19

Oct. 14

Deadline to register as willing to be a mentor

Oct. 23-29

Students review alumni profiles and request mentorship

Oct. 30

Deadline for alumni to confirm student request(s) for mentorship

Nov. 14

Program Kickoff Meet-and-Greet
(virtual component for non-local alumni)

If you have missed a deadline or have questions, please contact alumnimentor@alumni.ucla.edu.

For more information, see the FAQs

How do I participate?

Complete / Update your profile

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Include professional, academic, and volunteer experience

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Under the “Willing to help” section, check “Willing to be a mentor” and “UCLA Alumni Mentor Program”

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Under the “About Me” section, answer the following: “Why do you want to mentor a current student? What do you hope to offer as a mentor?”

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Make sure to click “Update” for each section

Await student mentor request(s) in October

How will a mentor match be made?

In October, students will review alumni profiles and send a message to request mentorship.

You will review request(s) and confirm mentee(s) by Oct. 30.

Once you’ve confirmed a mentee(s), update your profile by unchecking “Willing to be a mentor” to turn off your availability.

After confirming a mentee(s), you are officially part of the 2018-19 UCLA Alumni Mentor Program. Please save the date for our kickoff event on Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 7–9 p.m. on campus. For non-local alumni, there will be a virtual component.

Students

About the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program

As a UCLA student, you have exclusive access to a robust network of alumni who are eager and willing to meet you and share their wisdom and advice about life beyond UCLA.

The UCLA Alumni Mentor Program is a unique opportunity for you to form meaningful and lasting relationships with alumni that will extend beyond campus walls. As a program participant, you’ll have a chance to request a mentor to assist you with academic guidance, career advice and personal development. You will be paired for the academic year (October to June). We encourage mentors and mentees to connect on a regular basis (i.e. once a month phone call, in person meeting, or email conversation). However, the frequency and form of communication are things you both can determine. Opportunities to interact through the program will include virtual discussions, networking events and workshops, UCLA athletic events, and volunteer opportunities.

Key Dates – 2018-19

Oct. 15-17

Student info sessions: attend one session to receive priority access to review alumni profiles and request mentorship. RSVP here.

Oct. 23-29

Students review alumni profiles and request mentorship

Oct. 29

Deadline to request mentorship

Nov. 14

Program Kickoff Meet-and-Greet

If you have missed a deadline, please contact alumnimentor@alumni.ucla.edu.

For more information, see the FAQs

How do I participate?

Complete / Update your profile (under the “Me” tab, click “Update your profile”)

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Upload a professional photo

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Include academic, volunteer and professional experience

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Answer this question in the “About Me” section: “What do you hope to learn from an alumni mentor?”

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Make sure to click “Update” for each section

Search and review Alumni Mentor profiles on UCLA ONE using the Directory tab:

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Under “Refine your search” make sure to select “Willing to be a mentor”

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Filter your search using the following categories:

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UCLA: field of study, degree, grad year, communities

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Work: position, company/institution, industries

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Location: city, state, country

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Keyword search

Starting Oct. 23, students can request a mentor by following step 4 below:

Click “Request Mentorship” on your ideal mentor’s profile. Personalize your message in the “Mentoring request” box and then click “Send.” You are allowed to request only ONE alumni mentor.

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Introduce yourself (name, year, major) and include any relevant campus, volunteer or work experience

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Explain what you hope to learn from an alumni mentor and why you feel he/she would be the best fit

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Include reference(s) to information in the mentor’s profile (such as education, job, industry or volunteer experience)

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Conclude by asking if he/she would be interested in mentoring you as part of the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program and thank him/her for their consideration

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DO NOT REQUEST MENTORSHIP WITHOUT INCLUDING A PERSONALIZED MESSAGE

The deadline to request an alumni mentor is Monday, Oct. 29.

If you do not receive a response to your “Request Mentorship” message, please email alumnimentor@alumni.ucla.edu.

If your requested mentor confirms, you are officially part of the 2018-19 UCLA Alumni Mentor Program. Please save the date for our kickoff event on Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 7–9 p.m. on campus.

2018 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI MENTOR AWARDS

Garima Verma ’15

Bachelor of Arts, Communication Studies and Psychology
Assistant Manager, Digital Marketing at Paramount Pictures

Student mentee Samantha Wolf, a second year communications studies major, shared, “Garima has been an incredible mentor from the very start! She was very forthcoming about the sorts of mentorship she was willing to provide, specifically in regards to helping students find their specific career path (something I needed so desperately). […]

“For my first meeting with her, she treated me to lunch at Paramount Pictures, where she works. Garima had no reservations about allowing me to see her workplace, offering a tour of the lot in addition to a very engaging discussion about our experiences and how they fit into the professional world. It was an overwhelmingly positive first meeting. Knowing that she was on my side and able to offer help calmed a lot of fears about a daunting job search, especially in a competitive field such as media.

“It was great to have that initial meeting with her, for her advice carried me through the next few months of job searching at school. In the meantime, she has also emailed me with numerous internship opportunities in the Los Angeles area. She offered an in-depth and constructive review of my resume, reiterating numerous times that she was always willing to look at drafts of resumes and cover letters for applications. Garima has offered not only personal advice on solidifying interests but also professional advice when it comes to application logistics.

“While Garima excels as an alumni mentor in this traditional sense, she also goes above and beyond to help students in the UCLA community. She graciously offered her time to sit on a panel for a networking night with a student group I am a part of, which allowed her to share her expertise and experience with a broader community. Students responded very well to her advice, a testament to her extremely warm and welcoming personality. Garima was very popular at the event, and I felt so lucky to be associated with her!

“Lastly, Garima has reached out to me regarding continued mentorship beyond the Alumni Mentor Program. She wrote to me, ‘Even though the formal mentorship through UCLA ends in June, I just want you to know that with me, it won’t just end…I will always continue to do whatever I can for you.’ Garima has been a warm, supportive, helpful mentor to me this academic year, and I am excited to continue our friendship into the future. She is an exceptional mentor for her passion, kindness, resourcefulness, selflessness and charisma.”

Student mentee Ruhee Patel, a fourth year communications studies major, shared, “I am a graduating senior and Garima was very supportive and helpful throughout my job hunting experience. She always gave me great advice, helped me prepare for interviews, and even utilized her contacts to help me find opportunities. She was always a phone call, text, or email away and it helped knowing that I had someone so supportive guiding me.”

Robbie Hoeks ’12

Bachelor of Arts, Business Economics
Consultant at Accenture Netherlands

Student mentee Matthew Mueller, an MBA student at UCLA Anderson School of Management, shared, “I found Robbie’s profile while searching for professionals working in the Netherlands, where I am moving after I graduate from UCLA Anderson. While reading his profile I was impressed by his deep passion for Lean Agile deployment, to the point that I knew I had to reach out to learn more about his experience and how it could relate to my professional development. […]

“What I did not realize at the time was that Robbie would become a patient, generous, and thoughtful mentor. From showing me around his office at Accenture in the Netherlands and spending hours explaining Lean Agile processes as they related to my leadership role at UCLA Anderson, to fighting on my behalf for interview opportunities in the Netherlands, he has been steadfast in supporting my path to success. I have leveraged his techniques while facilitating large group sessions for my professional organization and team projects at Anderson and he has always been just a phone call away to provide feedback and guidance for those efforts.

“As I approach my significant transition to a new country I find extreme comfort knowing that there are people like Robbie there who may help me through it. Robbie is a prime example of how an alumnus can step up for a young student in big ways; I believe he is the epitome of a great mentor.”

Pamela Fusek, M.S. ’15

Master of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Systems Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Student mentee Supreethi Penmetcha, a second year mechanical engineering major, shared, “While this is her first year in the Alumni Mentor Program, Pam has not only been an incredible mentor, but also a part of my support system here at UCLA. Her endless encouragement and suggestions have helped guide me through the confusing, and sometimes terrifying, process of figuring out both my major and my future. […]

“My conversations with Pam have made me feel more at home at UCLA, as I could confide in her about my initial homesickness and difficulties adjusting to college. I was able to talk to her about how I didn’t feel cut out to be an engineer after taking my first few lower division classes. She shared similar experiences of her own, which helped me feel a lot less alone in my struggles, especially since this was a deeply personal topic. I am forever grateful to have had a female mentor in engineering like Pam.

“Furthermore, Pam has gone above and beyond just offering advice, as she also organized a tour of JPL, her workplace, with another mentor. This was an amazing opportunity and something she was very passionate about sharing with her mentees, even though it required a great deal of planning and time to make it happen.

“Pam has been a fantastic mentor throughout the year, as she always made time to drive down and meet with me at least once a month, and I am grateful I had someone like her to help me through the turbulent transition from high school to college.”

Student mentee Chris Lambert, a second year mechanical engineering major, shared, “Pam was thoroughly invested in the mentoring program. She was exactly the type of supportive and encouraging mentor one needs in their first year of college. Pam always listened to what I had to say and offered thoughtful advice. When she found out I was interested in rock climbing and hiking, she suggested a nearby state park and the local climbing gym for the next two upcoming mentorship sessions. Having mentorship in environments like these made it an enjoyable time for both of us and allowed us to make great conversation.

“Without her, I do not think I could have transitioned as well to the college lifestyle. Pam often recounted examples early in her college career where she struggled to adjust, and that reminded me that I am not the only one who has faced these challenges. Her wisdom helped me overcome many of the roadblocks I encountered this year.

“An example of Pam’s outstanding commitment to this program was that she organized a private tour of JPL after I mentioned that I am interested in interning there. Touring JPL was one of the highlights of my freshman year, and I am thankful that Pam gave me an opportunity to explore a potential future workplace.”

See all award winners | See spotlights

Frequently Asked Questions

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 entering 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 their 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 is expected of me as a mentor?

The UCLA Alumni Mentor Program is designed to engage alumni volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels. You will be paired for the full academic year (October to June) with the mentee(s) you have accepted. We encourage mentors and mentees to connect on a regular basis (i.e. once a month phone call, in person meeting, or email conversation). However, the frequency and form of communication are things you both can determine. Throughout the year we’ll offer tips on effective mentorship techniques, topics to discuss with your student and suggested activities to connect. Opportunities to interact through the program will include virtual discussions, networking events and workshops, UCLA athletic events, and volunteer opportunities. Our team will also be standing by to answer any questions you might have. Prior mentorship experience is not required.

How long is the commitment?

The commitment as a mentor lasts for the academic year (October – June). Alumni register to be a mentor in September, and then students review profiles and request a mentor in mid-October. Once you review your request(s) and confirm a student mentee(s), you will officially be a part of the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program.

How will a mentor match be made?

Once you register for the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program through UCLA ONE (uclaone.com) 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. From there, alumni will review mentorship request(s) and approve student(s) accordingly.

How many students can I mentor?

We recommend you mentor one to two students throughout the year. Most of our volunteers choose to mentor one student.

What if I receive more than one request for mentorship?

If you receive multiple requests, you will be able to review each student’s profile before confirming a request. We hope you’ll accept as many mentees as you feel fit to mentor, but you do have the option to decline a student if you simply don’t have time or think it’s the wrong fit. We recommend you mentor one to two students throughout the year. Most of our volunteers choose to mentor one student.

I’m still receiving messages from students requesting mentorship, yet I have already accepted my maximum number of mentees?

Once you have approved your mentee(s) request for mentorship, you will want to unselect the “Willing to be a mentor” box in your profile. You can do so by clicking on the “Me” tab on the top menu bar, then click “Update my profile” and uncheck “Willing to be a mentor.” This will signal that you are no longer available for mentorship and thus no longer accepting requests.

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 many program events, both in person and virtual, as possible to build a strong connection with your student.

Do I have to be in Los Angeles to participate as a mentor?

You do not have to live in Los Angeles to participate. You can mentor by connecting with your student via phone calls, email, Skype, or FaceTime and still be a great alumni mentor. This year we will also provide more virtual events and discussions for you and your mentee to participate in.

How do I sign up to be a mentor?

It is quick and simple to sign up to be a mentor. Please follow these steps to sign up on UCLA ONE.

What if I don’t receive any requests for mentorship from students?

We encourage you to complete your UCLA ONE profile by including all relevant professional, academic, and volunteer experience. In addition, we have included the opportunity to answer the questions “Why do you want to mentor a current student?” and “What do you hope to offer as a mentor?” Those will provide students with the best information to request mentorship. If you aren’t requested for mentorship through this program, Alumni Affairs offers many opportunities to volunteer your time and expertise – https://alumni.ucla.edu/get-involved/.

Students

Why should I participate as a student in the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program?

As a UCLA student, you have exclusive access to a robust network of alumni who are eager and willing to meet you and share their wisdom and advice about life beyond UCLA. The UCLA Alumni Mentor Program is a unique opportunity for you to form meaningful and lasting relationships with alumni that will extend beyond campus walls. As a program participant, you’ll have a chance to select a mentor to assist you with academic guidance, career advice and personal development.

What is expected of me as a mentee?

The UCLA Alumni Mentor Program is designed to engage alumni volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels. You will be paired for the full academic year (October to June) with the mentor who has accepted your request for mentorship. We encourage you to connect with your mentor on a regular basis (i.e. once a month phone call, in person meeting, or email conversation). However, the frequency and form of communication are things you both can determine. Opportunities to interact through the program will include virtual discussions, networking events and workshops, UCLA athletic events, and volunteer opportunities. Please DO NOT ask your mentor for a job or internship. The Alumni Mentor Program is about building your professional network, personal development and gaining academic and career advice. This program is not a direct pipeline to a job or internship, though it can often help with opportunities in the future.

How long is the commitment?

The commitment as a student mentee lasts for the academic year (October – June). Alumni will register to be a mentor in September and in mid-October, students will review profiles and send requests to their preferred mentor. Alumni will review your request(s) and confirm/select student mentee(s) through the UCLA ONE site. Once this happens you will be officially part of the 2018-2019 UCLA Alumni Mentor Program.

How will a mentor match be made?

Starting in mid-October, you will have a chance to register and review mentor profiles to find a mentor who fits your interests and career goals. Once you find your ideal mentor, you will click on the alumni profile and send a message to request mentorship. From there, alumni will review mentorship request(s) and approve student(s) accordingly.

Is there a limit to how many mentor requests I can send?

You are only allowed to send one mentor request. Make sure to review alumni profiles carefully and send your request to the alumnus who best fits your interests and career goals.

I reached out to someone, and did not receive a response. What should I do?

We ask that you give alumni enough time to respond, typically 2-3 days. Keep in mind that mentors are busy with their professions and personal lives, so please be considerate of their time. If you do not receive a mentorship request acceptance, please do not send a follow-up message asking alumni if they received your request and would like to be your mentor. You may contact alumnimentor@alumni.ucla.edu and we will determine if you are allowed to submit a second mentor request.

The mentor I was interested in connecting with, now no longer is willing to help?

Once a mentor has accepted their mentee match, they will uncheck the “Willing to be a mentor” box to indicate that they are no longer accepting mentor requests.

What if I want to continue my mentor/mentee match beyond the academic year?

You are welcome to stay connected with your mentor as long as they are willing and able to help.

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 both of you see fit. However, we do encourage you to attend as many program events, both in person and virtual, as possible to build a strong connection with your mentor.

Can I request a mentor who lives outside of Los Angeles?

Alumni Mentors do not have to live in Los Angeles to participate. You can connect with your mentor via phone calls, email, Skype, or FaceTime and still have a great connection. This year we will provide more virtual events and discussions for you and your mentor to participate in.

How do I sign up to be a mentee?

It is quick and simple to sign up to be a mentee. Please follow these steps to sign up on UCLA ONE.

Connect

Facebook

UCLA Alumni Mentor Program

Email

alumnimentor@alumni.ucla.edu

Networking

UCLA ONE