How do I choose a mentor?
Log in to ORCA as a student or alumnus and then select the "Connect With a Mentor" link. You may then search the database by different methods, including major, industry, geographical location of the mentor, and career field. Mentor names will be generated that meet your search criteria. By clicking to the left of their name, you can learn more about them and how they can help you. Look for their preferred method of contact, and then you are ready to initiate your communication.

What should I expect when I contact a mentor?
Your mentor may wish to be contacted a certain way, such as by email or telephone. If meeting in person is one of those ways, the mentor will probably suggest a meeting place, date and time for you to get together. Only ONE meeting is expected so make the most of your time with a mentor volunteer. Please keep in mind that you are asking the mentors to share information with you, not provide you with a job.

How do I prepare for my meeting?
Think about what you hope to gain from your communication with a mentor. Prepare a list of questions in advance, and research the career field and the organization at which they work. If you are meeting with your mentor, you may want to bring a copy of your resume to help communicate information quickly about your background.

What do I ask?

1. Ask questions about the mentor...

• How long have you been in your position?
• What do you do on a daily basis?
• What are problems you face, and decisions you make?
• What was your past career path that lead you to this position?
• What was your college major?

2. Find out about their job and occupation...

• What do you like/dislike about your job/occupation?
• What skills do you use the most in this job/occupation?
• What kind of salary and benefits would I expect in this field?
• What is the employment outlook?
• Would you recommend any specific professional organizations?
• How has technology impacted this career field?
• How do most people get started in this field?
• What academic preparation do you recommend to qualify for this position?
• Is relocation a factor in your job, travel obligations?
• Are "no experience" college graduates employed in this field?
• How important are internships?
• What are examples of entry level positions in this field?

3. Get some advice...

• What can I do to reach my goals?
• What methods of job searching work best in this field?
• Could you review my resume?
• What can I do to learn more about this career?
• Would it be possible for you to give me an organization tour?
• Can you suggest other people that might be valuable sources of information?
• How should I go about selecting the best graduate school for me?

What do I do after I connect with my mentor?
Send a thank you note to the mentor! Complete the online evaluation form to let us know about your experience. We really want to know how things went and if this service was valuable to you. If you have any questions or concerns, contact The Career Development Center, 878-5811 or e-mail Jessie Lombardo at stackjj@buffalostate.edu.