Institutions recognize that career readiness is critical to student success. The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UW-Green Bay) has taken significant strides in this area through its transformative mentoring project, designed to support first-generation students in navigating their academic and professional journeys. A commitment to fostering sense of belonging and access for all students, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, is front and center.
Dr. Dawn Crim, Vice Chancellor for Advancement, Community Engagement, and Inclusivity, states, “Mentoring provides someone to assist with that pathway from college to career. Students can learn from their mentors' experiences and share details about what it was like for them in their first interview experience and what it was like for them at their first job.” This personalized support is essential for first-generation students, who may face additional barriers in building networks and accessing career advice.
Dr. Crim elaborates on the importance of mentorship as part of the university’s broader student success strategy: “It’s impactful not only for students but for the campus as a whole… Mentoring allows people to connect with who they need to know, providing valuable insights that inform their career paths.”
The mentoring project, facilitated by Mentor Collective, has successfully created a robust support system, connecting students with alumni and local industry professionals. Kathryn Marten, Student and Community Engagement Coordinator, emphasizes the program’s mission: “We’re going to match you with someone who is an alumni or a career professional to help you get through college and prepare for your future career.” This intentional matching approach has proven critical in fostering genuine relationships that lead to career exploration and skill development.
The program’s impact on student engagement has been striking. In the 2023-2024 academic year, 90% of students in the mentorship cohort re-enrolled, compared to a 63% retention rate among the broader undergraduate population. The program has also yielded impressive improvements in key areas:
This program empowers students to explore career options, secure internships, and develop valuable connections that enhance their employability.
While data highlights the program's success, the true impact lies in the stories participants share. Mentors express their passion for supporting the next generation. One mentor conveyed, “I love helping others reach their goals and/or find their path while setting and crushing them. If I can do it, anyone can, and I’d be happy to be a cheerleader on someone’s path.” This spirit of encouragement fosters a nurturing environment that boosts students' confidence and resilience.
UW-Green Bay’s initiative is a powerful model for other institutions aiming to enhance career readiness through mentorship. Dr. Crim notes, “The more people who are connected to students, the greater their success.” This philosophy underpins their commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem for all students, particularly first-generation learners.
As the program continues to expand, it demonstrates the critical role that structured, supportive mentorship plays in preparing students for their future careers and addressing the needs of diverse student populations. Kathryn highlights the commitment to ongoing growth: "We continue to keep our eyes toward future growth opportunities and expanding the program.”
For educational institutions aiming to foster similar success in career readiness, the message is clear: prioritize mentorship, understand your students' unique experiences, and create pathways that connect academia to the professional world.
Interested in replicating the success of UW-Green Bay’s initiative at your institution? Learn how to start and scale a professional mentorship program on your campus by connecting with Mentor Collective for a personalized demo and consultation today!
Want to learn more about UW-GB’s mentoring project? Check out their website!