Have some ideas about which careers you might want to try, but not really sure how to choose between them? Looking for someone with an inside track to tell you the real story about your options?

Alumni Career Mentoring

The Alumni Career Mentoring Program provides an opportunity for students to meet with Brooklyn College alumni (usually at their workplace) to discuss career issues and receive advice. Mentors are alumni who are currently working in a variety of fields who volunteer to educate students about the requirements and career paths in their field. Students ask questions and receive the insights of a career insider. The Alumni Career Mentor Program provides a unique opportunity to introduce students to people they ordinarily could not turn to for information.

The main purpose is to educate and inform, the program is not for job hunting--although some alumni may volunteer to be of help. People who are actually working in a field have a perspective, based on their own real-world experience that no career counselor can provide. They're not going to offer you a job, but they can help steer you in the right direction. The meeting is essentially an information interview.

What exactly is an information interview? How is it different from a job interview? An information interview is what the name implies; it is an interview designed to provide you with information about:

a) a career field, including job opportunities and job prospects;
b) a specific company, including work environment and career paths;

In addition, an information interview can provide you with valuable professional contacts within an organization and the career field.

PREPARATION

Before going on any information interviews, you should have a good sense of your skills, interests and abilities. It is important that you be able to discuss your skills and abilities in a non threatening, open way. Proper attire is also important as is a clear sense of the questions you want to ask the mentor.

To prepare you for this important interview, CCDI provides you with a full training and preparation experience performed by one of our professional career staff. Print and fill out this registration form prior to your appointment.

For information on participating in the Alumni Career Mentoring Program contact Pamela Brown in 1305 James. She can be reached by phone at 718 951-5774 or by email: pbrown@brooklyn.cuny.edu.