Just one conversation can launch a student’s post-college career. The Honors College has been bridging the gap between college and professional careers since the summer of 2023 through the Career and Community Mentorship Program.
Matthew Means, Honors College dean, created the mentorship program to help students connect with professionals from the community. By showing students real people who have successfully transitioned from college to career, this opportunity allows students to visualize what a career post-graduation may look like. Students also gain exposure to their field and career opportunities of which they may not have been aware.
The MARC Nevada Fellowship helped me advance in my undergraduate career by supporting my journey in transitioning to graduate school, said Oscar Liu, microbiology and immunology student.
To be eligible for the mentorship program, undergraduate students must be enrolled in the Honors College. Applications are accepted every semester; the Honors College is currently accepting applications for the Fall 2025 semester.
Undergraduate students interested in the Career and Community Mentorship Program undergo an application process. Once selected, students will be matched with community members from around the nation who fit their interests. The program provides a unique opportunity to grow with students throughout their college journey as they develop both professionally and in school.
"This program is a high-impact mentorship program that pairs honors students with community leaders, who can assist you in your personal, professional, and academic development. That's the most important part; it's all about you. What a student puts into it is what they will get out of it," said Audrey Cerfoglio, honors community engagement specialist.
The Honors College is a great resource for students interested in scholarships, travel and fellowships.
The mentorship program requires only an hour a week. During this time students update and maintain resumes, participate in applicable research and connect with professionals already working in their chosen field.
"We have medical doctors, lawyers, engineers, liberal arts people, psychology, business ... all different disciplines that students could be interested in," Cerfoglio said.
Students like Paola Alvarez have used the program to sharpen their academic goals, with help from mentor Walker Hilton.
Participating in the Career and Community Mentorship Program has been one of the most transformative parts of my undergraduate career. I've had the opportunity to work closely with mentors whose guidance has not only helped me grow as a researcher but has also clarified my goals for graduate school. Thanks to their support, I've been able to conduct research, work in labs and secure internships. This program has helped me feel confident and prepared to attend graduate school, I encourage anyone with an interest in research to take part in it, Alvarez said.
Students in the mentorship program also find personal development opportunities from learning new languages to developing school-life balance routines that work for them.
For those interested in giving back, the Honors College is always seeking new mentors not only open for alums but also community members who are looking to positively impact students' trajectories. Mentors are matched with students based on professional interests. To learn more about mentoring visit the Honors College's Program Opportunities webpage.
