Why Every Student Needs a Mentor (and How to Find Yours) 

January is National Mentoring Month—a time to celebrate the transformative power of mentorship and the real-world opportunities it creates. Whether you’re mapping out career goals, refining your academic focus, or planning your next professional move, a mentor’s guidance can make all the difference. They’ve been where you’re headed, and their advice can help you get there faster and smarter. 

Don’t wait for opportunities to find you—take the first step! Reach out, connect, and let a mentor help you take the next step toward your goals—you don’t have to do it alone. 

Why Mentorship Matters

Mentors bring expertise and perspective that can help you make informed decisions about your career. They can: 

  • Offer industry-specific advice and insights. 
  • Help you expand your professional network. 
  • Provide encouragement and constructive feedback. 
  • Share strategies for overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities

Mentorship is more than networking, more than just a conversation—it’s the development of a relationship that can shape your journey for years to come. 

For students, connecting with mentors early can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and long-term career success. The guidance of someone who has been in your shoes can be the difference between feeling lost and finding a clear path forward. 


Tap Into Your Alumni Network with Lundquist Connect

At the Lundquist College of Business, you don’t have to look far to find mentors eager to help. Lundquist Connect is our online networking platform where alumni who have walked your path are ready to share their knowledge and support your success. 

Through Lundquist Connect, you can: 

  • Find and connect with business Ducks in your field of interest 
  • Schedule one-on-one conversations to ask questions and gain insights 
  • Build lasting relationships that can support your professional growth throughout your career

This National Mentoring Month, take the first step toward building your mentor network by signing up for Lundquist Connect. Signing up is quick and easy—and it could be the most impactful step you take for your career this year.  

If you’ve already set up your profile, make sure it’s updated to strengthen your ability to market yourself to alumni mentors on the platform.  

If you have any questions or about using Lundquist Connect, reach out to Emily Severeid —she’s here to help you make the most of Lundquist Connect. 

By Emily Severeid
Emily Severeid Assistant Director, Alumni Engagement