The Industry Exploratory Mentoring Group (IEMG) is a continuation of the Industry Insights Group pilot program that give students the opportunity to connect with alumni and explore various industries to learn more of the individual divisions that make up and support an organization. Whereas the previous pilot grouped focused on the STEM field, this collaboration with Housing & Residential Education focused on residential students who have yet to decide their major. The six (6) student participants are learning about the importance of mentoring along their exploratory journey and how to get the most out of their mentoring relationships. We have four meetings scheduled for Winter and Spring terms with meetings and communications with mentors in between. We have a very enthusiastic alum, Neda Kikhia (BA ’16, MA ’20), who will serve as mentor and will not only share her journey towards her current career but will also engage in supporting mentees as they discover their own paths. In addition to partnering with Housing & Residential Education for recruitment of students, Roo Hiremath is supporting the operations needs of the group with communications, scheduling events and coordinating meals.
Our first gathering was held in the new Burwell Center for Career Achievement in the Shopneck Pavilion. It was a great and very collaborative space for hosting an evening of fellowship and learning between students and alumni. We were able to sit around the beautifully structured large table to share experiences, hopes and expectations for involvement in the Industry Exploratory Mentoring Group (IEMG).
The IEMG program supports each area within the 4D student development model (Careers & Lives of Purpose, Intellectual Growth, Wellbeing and Character) along with a strong focus on developing career readiness competencies as identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) that include Career & Self Development, Communication and Professionalism.
Our exploratory ventures (City Treks) will take us on visits to different organizations around the Denver area. We will still rely on our Career & Professional Development (CPD) colleagues on their career readiness expertise. Our alumni mentors, City Treks and CPD trainings will all combine to help our students reach the following learning outcomes:
- Understanding of how to review careers and jobs that make up an industry of interest
- Communication & Networking skills
- Understanding how a mentoring relationship can be used to support goals
- Resume and cover letter creation or updates with Career Advisors
- Awareness of what professionalism means in different industries
- Resources for career exploration and alumni/professional mentoring
Our goal is to make this project scalable in future academic terms allowing more student exposure as well as mentors giving of their time and talents. For more information on professional mentoring opportunities at DU contact mentoring@du.edu.
