CLAS Women’s Leadership Collective

Supporting future leaders. Leveraging the power of women.

Women face unique challenges as they enter the workforce and advance in leadership positions. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is leveraging the power of women with the CLAS Women’s Leadership Collective.

This program provides undergraduate students with a unique learning experience coupled with group mentorship from UConn alumnae. Participants develop career-building skills while making connections with mentors in their field of interest.

Each mentorship circle discusses important professional skills such as how to handle conflict, salary negotiation, leadership styles, and more.

Read Student Success Stories

Learn what peers said about their experience in the program:

“I never expected to meet such wonderful, compassionate mentors and peers. Every meeting was a judgment free zone with support, advice, and guidance. I have learned so much from my mentorship circle with their experiences and advice. They have taught me how to progress my career with grace and take advantage of every opportunity. I will forever be thankful for them changing my outlook about my future.”

“I initially applied to the WLC because I wanted that mentor relationship with someone who could support me in having career conversations. So far, the program has been everything I expected and then some! As a senior in college, it can be difficult to have those overwhelming conversations. From my mentors, I’ve learned it’s also okay to give yourself a break sometimes. You don’t always have to be taking some giant next step in your career journey. I see myself as a more calm, confident individual now who is ready to start her life post-grad.”

“I have experienced growth in many ways through this program. I connect really well with my mentor. We’ve talked a lot about imposter syndrome, growing confidence, and general struggles we have faced. I have found her support to be truly amazing. Having a strong, successful woman to look up to who can also be emotionally available and vulnerable with me is life-changing. [My mentor] has helped connect me with other professionals to expand my network and expose me to different fields of interest. I am very grateful for my ongoing experience with this program.”

I never expected to meet such wonderful, compassionate mentors and peers. Every meeting was a judgment free zone with support, advice, and guidance.

The application for the 2024-2025 academic year is now open.

Apply Now

Program Commitments

Meet virtually with their mentorship circle once a month for 60 minutes.

Required events:

  • Student orientation.
  • Kickoff event.
  • Student dinners (3-4 throughout the year).
  • End of year event.

Eligibility

The ideal student participant is an undergraduate who is interested in pursuing personal and professional growth through peer and alum 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 must meet the following criteria:

  • Currently a junior or senior.
  • 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.

Additional Requirements

  • Maintain full-time enrollment and good academic standing at UConn.
  • Attend and thoughtfully participate in required mentorship gatherings, which are scheduled throughout the year.
  • Actively engage with mentor
  • Attend all mandatory events.
  • Maintain timely communication with CLAS staff, peers, and mentors.

Contact Us

For questions, please email Jessica Alexander, associate director of alumni relations for CLAS.