Audrey Hunter, a graduate of the College of Education and Health Professions, is pictured volunteering at a sports event for high school students in a rural school district in Arkansas and is a member of the college's new Alumni Mentoring Program (AMP). I was one of the first to sign up.
Audrey Hunter was struggling to find her way as a new registered nurse. That's why the College of Education and Health Professions graduates jumped at the chance to join the college's alumni mentorship program, which supports students preparing to enter the workforce.
Hunter earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the university's Eleanor Mann School of Nursing and earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree this month. She is a charge nurse at St. Luke's South Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas.
“I want to answer questions, build confidence, clarify concerns, and support professional development,” Hunter said in her application.
The new program matches graduates of colleges of education and health professions with students who match their educational and career backgrounds. Applications are due by May 30th.
Professionals can choose from three mentorship options depending on availability and preference.
“Our leaders are excited to give back to our alma mater while playing a vital role in shaping the future success of our graduates,” said Mary Keith, director of career initiatives at the university. Stated. “They want to help students navigate the world of work with confidence.”
Alumnus Zach Vaughn, director of the Illinois Sports Performance Center, said he is motivated to become a mentor to educate and support students interested in the health and fitness field. “At that stage, I think I knew exactly what I wanted to do, but I didn't have any of the resources to figure out how to make it happen. “I want to be a resource for others who are looking to build,” he noted.
Students enrolled in the program will be able to work closely with experts who will review their resumes, provide interview tips, provide job shadowing opportunities, and provide real-world insight into their chosen field. looking forward to it.
Alex Hicks, an elementary education student who wants to teach math and science at the middle school level, wants to be matched with a longtime educator who is open-minded and willing to share candid feedback about the profession. Masu. “When her first year as a teacher comes, I really want to be as prepared as possible. It would be very helpful if I could get in touch with a professional in advance,” she says. said.
Olivia Smith, a sophomore majoring in exercise science, plans to work in the medical field. She sought a mentor who “truly loved” their profession, would hold her accountable, and would support her post-graduation success. She says, “I hope that by making real connections with mentors, I can begin to plant seeds in the world of medicine, build networks in my community, and gain insight into all things pre-medical.”
The Alumni Mentoring Program Committee will review applications by June 1st and notify match results after June 15th. Visit the AMP website to learn more about the program.
