First Generation Mentorship Program
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is launching its First Generation Mentorship Program during the 2023-2024 academic year. This program offers students the opportunity to learn from alums and peers, with a focus on the student’s career interests.
Students who would like to develop their leadership skills will have an opportunity to find their unique leadership style as well as make connections with mentors that can last a lifetime. It is open to any undergrad student who is the first in their family to go to college.
Selected participants will engage with alumni on:
- Key issues that affect people in the workplace and society.
- Group meetings that connect alumni and students with similar career aspirations.
- Help students learn important skills needed to start the career journey.
Applications for the 2023-2024 cohort are now closed.
Eligibility and Nominations
The ideal student participant is an undergraduate who is interested in pursuing personal and professional growth through peer and alumni interactions.
The College encourages students of varying leadership experiences to apply. Please note that this program can be an applicant’s entry into leadership, so a resume full of positions in student organizations is not a prerequisite.
Eligible candidates for the First Generation Program must meet the following criteria:
- Junior or senior at the time of their application.
- Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
- Enrolled as a full-time student in good standing.
- Demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, supporting peers, and empowering women to succeed.
Students must submit an application, resume, and two references.
For questions or for more information, please email Jessica Alexander, Associate Director of Alumni Relations for CLAS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the First Generation Mentorship Program?
The program welcomes any first-generation student within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences to apply.
Is this experience open to CLAS students at the regional campuses?
Yes. Applicants from all UConn campuses will be considered. However, there must be a commitment to attend relevant programming based in Storrs.
What are the program commitments?
Participants must commit to the following:
- Maintaining full-time enrollment and good academic standing at UConn.
- Attending and thoughtfully participating in required mentorship gatherings, which will be scheduled throughout the year.
- Actively engaging with mentors and peers in Mentorship Circles.
- Attending all mandatory events.
- Maintaining timely communication with CLAS staff, peers, and mentors.
What are the other mandatory events for the program besides the mentorship meetings?
- November - Kickoff Event
- February - Student Dinner
- March - Student Dinner
- April - End of Year Event
My application is complete and submitted. What are the next steps?
Top candidates will be selected for a 30-minute interview at the end of September. Interviews will be scheduled via video conference.