CSE Mentor Program

Helping Students Build Their Professional Network and Career Skills

Each fall, almost 300 CSE students are matched with industry professionals who provide valuable career information, insights and strategies. The CSE Mentor Program, which begins in October and ends in April every school year, is one of the largest of its kind at the University of Minnesota. Students learn to build their professional network, refine communication skills, connect academics and career, explore new areas of interest and transition to the workplace.

For Alumni and Friends

Mentor Responsibilities

As a mentor, your role is to help your student transition from college life to the workplace. Mentors do not need to live in the Twin Cities area to participate. Mentor responsibilities include:

• At least two contacts per month with your student via face-to-face, telephone or email.
• Attendance at an orientation in the fall and closing reception in the spring if you live in the Twin Cities area.
• Determining how your expertise can help your student meet their career goals.
• Making time available for your student.

Active mentors can access downloadable agreements, event schedules and discussion prompts on the CSE Mentor Program Materials and Information page.

Help Us Spread the Word! Tell your friends and colleagues about this program. All scientists, engineers and practicing actuaries are welcome. The program is open to UMN alumni and non-alumni.

Questions? Email [email protected].

For CSE Students

The program is open to current CSE sophomores, juniors and seniors. First-year students are asked to wait a year to gain academic experience and perspective.

Student Responsibilities

As a student in the Mentor Program, your role is to set the groundwork for a lasting professional network as you gain access to an insider’s perspective on navigating your career path. This program will match you with an industry professional in your area of interest.

• Take the lead in the relationship by identifying your goals for the program and initiating contact with your mentor via face-to-face, telephone or email communications at least two times per month.
• Your mentor may provide career advice, guidance and networking opportunities; however, they are not expected to provide students with jobs or internships.

Enrolled students must review required orientation guidelines, matching rules and email templates on the CSE Mentor Program Guidelines page.

Questions? Email [email protected].

For Corporate Partners

Your role is to help support the CSE Mentor Program:

• Promote the program to your employees.
• Organize networking groups for employees participating in the program.
• Provide tours or events for mentors and their students.

For information about CSE's other mentoring programs, visit the mentor programs web page. If you have questions about the CSE Mentor Program, email [email protected].