College Student Mentoring

Upon graduation, college students in our community are feeling unprepared to job search success. Similarly, 67% of employers cite substandard interview skills as a major barrier to graduates acquiring a job (Chronicle of Higher Education). Unfortunately, although effective interview skills are important, they are often a neglected factor in higher education curricula (Journal of Geography in Higher Education).

To answer this need, the Rotary Club of Irvine is partnering with Irvine colleges and universities to mentor students on professional development, interview skills, networking, and gaining both the soft skills and technical skills necessary for job attainment.

A series of workshops is offered to students:

• • Resume writing

  • LinkedIn profile development

  • Personal branding

  • Value of internships

  • Interview skills training

  • Networking skills training

Following the workshops, students participate in mock-interview and networking sessions with a panel of three volunteers, after which students are given feedback and guidance.

PROJECT FUNDING: 

Partnering institutions have funded much of the cost for supplies, materials, and venue. However, to fully realize this project, a gap of $1,500 remains.

Donors will receive priority invitations (optional) to participate as trainers and/or mock-interview panelists. Funds raised in excess of the gap will rollover to the same project next year.

DONATION OPTIONS: