Under the guidance of the Dean’s Alumni Circle, the recent re-launch of the College of Business Administration’s mentoring program aligns with Florida International University (FIU) President Rosenberg’s call to action to energize tomorrow’s business leaders today.
“Our goal is to discover potential, nurture talent and help turn lives around, while shaping the future of our school and community,” said Luisa Mendoza-Chavez (BS ’05), who co-chairs the Alumni Circle mentoring program committee with Gloria Romero Roses (BBA ’92).
The mentoring program kicked off with a January 29, 2010 orientation session that brought together 14 students with 14 mentors from the college’s alumni and the local business community.
Mentors and mentees stay in touch via monthly meetings or phone calls. They work together to meet the goals outlined in their mentoring action plan.
The mentors focus on helping enhance their mentee’s learning experience by providing exposure to industry-specific, real-world business experience. They also offer much-needed support to students who may be at risk of dropping out or extending their degree programs.
“The Alumni Circle mentoring committee offers extraordinary support and creativity,” Mendoza-Chavez said. “Each member brings many valuable resources to the program.”
Setting the “pay it forward” principle into motion.
Mendoza-Chavez describes her own mentor as “an angel dressed in a business suit” who opened the door of opportunity and led her to find a successful career path. Her experience ignited her belief in the power of mentoring.
“This is the unique value proposition of the Alumni Circle: providing a platform for alums to channel their passion for the benefit of our students and ultimately our community at large,” Romero Roses said.
“The beauty of mentoring is that each relationship is unique,” Mendoza-Chavez said. “We aim to transform the students, motivating and inspiring them to accomplish personal and career goals. We hope to one day see them return as alumni and take on a mentoring role.”
Learn more about the Dean’s Alumni Circle mentoring program.
