Building a Mentoring Program for First-generation Students

For more than 25 years, the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business Corporate Mentor Program (CMP) has helped first-generation students transition into rewarding careers by pairing them with mentors in the Tampa Bay area. Through monthly meetings, students and mid-to-senior-level executives have the opportunity to create meaningful connections. Additionally, students may shadow the executive for a day; mentors may extend invitations to tag along at chamber functions, networking events, or trade association meetings. Corporate culture, skill-sets, and career paths are common topics of conversation; over time, friendships may develop so personal guidance may even be offered.

As part of CMP, students participate in a Business Skills and Best Practices course. This session is designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn the distinct features of professional development focusing on interpersonal communication, goal-setting, and career projection. Students take this course during the fall of the academic year they are admitted into the program.

During this live briefing participants will gain insight into the mission, vision and structure of the Corporate Mentor Program at the University of South Florida and examine strategies for implementing an impactful mentoring program on your campus.

Learning Outcomes

By attending this session, participants will:

• understand the mission, vision, and structure of the University of South Florida’s Corporate Mentor Program;
• demonstrate how to better serve the first-generation student population through a structured mentoring program; and 
• examine strategies for implementing an impactful mentoring program on your campus.