The School of Public Policy is unwavering in its commitment to nurturing the professional growth of its students. Through the Policy in Partnership Mentorship Program, over 50 mentor-mentee connections have been forged, fostering valuable relationships among students and their mentors. This initiative connects students with experienced mentors who guide them on their academic and professional journeys.
Bryan Kempton, director of career services and alumni relations at the School, highlighted the program's core goals and impact on the community. "The goals of the program are to support the professional development of policy students and provide them with valuable mentorship opportunities. The program helps students gain practical skills, expand their networks and receive guidance from experienced professionals," he stated. Kempton attributes the program's significant growth to the dedication of Career Services and Alumni Relations Coordinator Hardeep Chowdhary and Graduate Assistant Laura Ndour, as well as the robust support from the SPP community.
Kempton shared a success story, citing Theodore Caruthers '18, who transitioned from a mentee to a successful career with Booz Allen as a strategy consultant. "Mentorship has played a pivotal role in the academic and professional journeys of many SPP students," Kempton affirmed.
Chowdhary explained the meticulous process of pairing mentors and mentees. "We wanted to ensure that students had another resource to utilize as they begin their careers. We focused on policy and career interests and streamlined the matching process, pairing up all students who applied for a mentor this year," he explained.
Chowdhary emphasized the program's adaptability beyond graduation, stating, "If both parties are willing to continue to work together, we encourage them to do so. Extending the relationship beyond this academic year is strongly encouraged."
As the mentor-mentee pairs embark on their professional relationships, Kempton and Chowdhary look forward to a capstone event at the end of the year to celebrate the successful engagement of policy students with alumni, employers and friends of the School.