Sparks Mentorship Program : Student
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The Sparks Mentorship Program is an innovative initiative that pairs retired and currently active professionals with college students to facilitate meaningful exchanges of knowledge and advice. By drawing on the extensive experience of its mentors, the program aims to unlock the potential of the next generation, creating a link between academic theory and practical experience in the professional world. This service is offered free of charge, driven solely by the our desire to contribute to the community.
Program Benefits
College students gain numerous benefits from having mentors during their undergraduate degree programs, including:
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Guidance and Advice: Mentors provide valuable insights into academic choices, career paths, and personal development, helping students navigate the complexities of college life and beyond.
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Professional Networking: Mentors can introduce students to professional networks, opening up opportunities for internships, jobs, and collaborations that can be pivotal for their future careers.
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Skill Development: Students can learn important skills such as communication, leadership, and critical thinking from their mentors, which are crucial for both personal and professional success.
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Increased Confidence: Regular interactions with a mentor can boost a student's self-esteem and confidence by affirming their capabilities and potential.
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Enhanced Academic Performance: Mentors can provide academic support, helping students improve their study habits, understand difficult concepts, and ultimately achieve better grades.
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Career Planning and Development: With their wealth of experience, mentors can offer invaluable advice on career planning, resume building, and job interview preparation.
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Course Selection Assistance: Mentors can provide thoughtful advice on selection of courses for upcoming semesters that are in alignment with your career aspirations and interests.
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Personal Growth: Through reflection and discussion, mentors can help students understand themselves better, fostering personal growth and maturity.
Student Eligibility
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Undergraduate college students attending a US college
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Graduating high school seniors through rising college seniors may apply (mentorship is one year)
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A commitment to personal growth and academic achievement
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Commitment to learning from experienced professionals
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Time commitment is 1 hour per month for 12 months
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Exceptions may be made
Mentor Highlight - Todd McLean
Todd McLean earned his B.A. in Communication Theory from Temple University. His focus was to understand how and why people communicate the way they do. Since earning his degree, Todd has dedicated his career to assisting others in their pursuits of personal and professional success and joy. With over 13 years in the Talent Development space, Todd has learned how to identify the needs of others with ease, while providing them with solutions that surpass the expectations of a basic development plan. Being an ICF certified coach, he has used adult learning theory coupled with coaching methodologies to implement learning strategies across numerous Fortune 500 organizations on a global scale. Currently he holds the position of Talent Development Manager at Coca Cola Consolidated, where he supports teammate development, performance management, and leadership development. In his spare time, Todd enjoys traveling to new countries every year, going on challenging hikes with his dog, and supporting local businesses in his community.
Student Endorsement
"As we celebrate this wonderful holiday season, I want to send a big thank you your way. I would like to express my gratitude for all your guidance and support over the past year. You have helped me immensely, both personally and professionally. I truly appreciate that! I hope you enjoy a Christmas filled with joy and laughter with family, friends and loved ones. Merry Christmas! Or in Vietnamese "Giáng Sinh Vui Vẻ"!"
Mentorship Standards
In alignment with the above program benefits, we have implemented a routine checklist of topics for all mentors to consider including within their mentorships. While each student will have unique goals and needs, the below checklist will be consistently applied and discussed across all mentorships.
