Minuteman Mentors
Guidelines for Students and Alumni Mentees
First impressions are important, and the best mentor relationships start with good preparation. The Alumni Association recommends you follow these simple success tips to help ensure you get the most out of your interaction with your new mentor.
- Always contact Minuteman Mentors using the preferred means of contact noted on the mentor profile.
- Minuteman Mentors is not a job search resource. Please do not use the network to ask for a job or internship. Rather, utilize the network to obtain general insight into a career, industry, geographic area, or career related interest. For assistance in searching for job and internship listings, please consult the Your Career page to find the career center that serves you.
- It is appropriate to ask mentors for networking advice, job/internship search strategies, or even an informational interview, particularly within the mentor’s own industry category or job function.
- During your initial contact, there is no need to attach a resume. Introduce yourself, express your reasons for contacting the mentor, and describe what you are seeking to accomplish/learn through the interaction.
- Choose mentors and make contact with a specific purpose in mind. Be able to articulate clearly what you are looking for and how the mentor may help you.
- Research the mentor’s company or organization. Be able to demonstrate knowledge about their employer when you make your initial contact.
- Ask questions. This is your opportunity to learn as much as you can from your mentor. Click here to see a list of good conversation starter questions.
- Always thank the advisor for their time and assistance.
- If you have questions, contact Career Connections at 800-456-UMASS or alumni@admin.umass.edu.