In early 2014, Trent University’s Alumni Affairs department and the Career Centre joined forces to create a new way for alumni and students to interact with each other. Now entering its third year, the Life After Trent: Mentoring Program has proved to be a very beneficial initiative that connects ambitious undergraduate students with highly accomplished Trent alumni and Peterborough community leaders.

Speaking of the program and its benefits, Robin Sundstrom ’78, Trent alumna and current President of IRonside Investory Relations, says: “I always gain – from meeting with smart, ambitious young people – the energy, the different way of looking at the world, and the perspective on prospects for young people entering the job market.”

The goal of the program is to assist students in gaining insight into industries and occupations that are of interest to them, develop their professional network, improve communication and networking skills, and ease the confusion of campus to career transition. Interested students must go through an application process to be considered for the program, which involves selecting their top three mentors they want to connect with.

Dorcas Mensah, a third-year honours Science student and student representative on the Trent Board of Governors, participated in the 2015 alumni-student mentoring initiative. She saw the program as an amazing opportunity to gain insights into a future career path.

“This mentorship has allowed me to foster confidence, discipline, professionalism, and above all else, improve my communication and networking skills,” said Ms. Mensah, who was matched with Cathy Fooks, president and CEO of the Change Foundation.

The possibilities from participating in this program as a Trent undergraduate student are endless. Winston Meyer ’78, a Trent alumnus and current first vice president and portfolio manager at CIBC Wood Gundy, participated in the 2015 program and the student he mentored is now an employee at CIBC Wood Gundy.

“Definitely a win-win program!” remarked Mr. Meyer, who is returning for his second consecutive year as a mentor. “There is a natural appreciation and compassion that accompanies the understanding of the plight of new graduates seeking employment. If one is able to assist with the employment and/or career insights, it provides personal satisfaction.”

Applications for the 2016 Life After Trent: Mentoring Program, part of the Life After Trent Series, will be accepted until Friday, January 29, 2016. Successful candidates receive a professional development session from the Career Centre, which is followed by two one on one sessions between the mentor-mentee over the winter semester. Visit the Career Centre’s website for full program details and application instructions. »