Welcome to Orange Mentor Connect, a dynamic and supportive platform designed to connect mentors and mentees for mutual growth, learning, and success. Whether you’re a student seeking guidance or an upper-division student eager to share your knowledge, our program provides a structured and impactful way to foster meaningful relationships and create a stronger community.
For additional information, email Mentoring@syr.edu or call 315.443.0221.
How it Works
Orange Mentor Connect pairs mentors and mentees based on shared goals, experiences, and interests. Through one-on-one interactions, mentors provide guidance, support, and encouragement to help mentees achieve both personal and academic success.
Step1: Join the Program
Sign up as either a mentor or mentee. Complete a profile that highlights your goals, skills, and interests. This allows us to make the best match for both parties.
Step 2: Get Matched
Using an advanced matching algorithm, we connect you with a mentor or mentee who shares your professional and personal interests. This ensures that your mentoring relationship is built on common goals and mutual understanding.
Step 3: Engage & Grow
Once matched, you'll have access to tools and resources to help guide your conversations and meetings. Whether it’s through regular check-ins, goal-setting, or skill-building, the relationship will evolve over time as you work together to reach milestones.
Step 4: Reflect & Celebrate
At the end of the mentorship journey, both mentors and mentees can reflect on their experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss next steps. Many relationships continue well beyond the formal program as they evolve into lasting connections.
Benefits of Mentorship
Mentees:
- Personalized Guidance: Receive one-on-one support tailored to your specific needs and goals.
- Networking Opportunities: Gain access to valuable networks, both professionally and personally.
- Skill Development: Build critical life skills, including problem-solving, communication, and leadership.
- Increased Confidence: Mentorship can provide the encouragement and perspective you need to tackle challenges and achieve your potential.
Mentors:
- Give Back: Help others while making a positive impact on their personal and professional growth.
- Strengthen Leadership Skills: Enhance your leadership abilities through meaningful, one-on-one relationships.
- Networking & Learning: Develop new perspectives from your mentee’s experiences, broadening your understanding of different backgrounds and perspectives.
- Personal Fulfillment: There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone grow and succeed with your guidance.
Why Orange Mentor Connect
Tailored Matches
We understand that mentorship isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Our system takes your interests, goals, and preferences into account to create customized mentor-mentee pairs that will foster successful and impactful relationships.
Flexible Communication
Whether it’s in-person, via email, or through virtual platforms, we provide flexible options for mentors and mentees to connect in a way that fits their schedules and preferences.
Ongoing Support
Throughout the duration of the mentorship, we offer ongoing support and resources to ensure that both mentors and mentees have the tools they need to succeed. From training to check-ins, we’re here to make the experience as beneficial as possible.
How to Join
Orange Mentor Connect is an exclusive program by email/text invitation only, designed to foster meaningful connections. Once you receive your email/text invitation, you’ll have the unique opportunity to participate as a mentor and a mentee. Whether you’re looking for guidance or are excited to give back, this program is here to connect you with the right people to help you achieve your goals.
To get started, mentors will need to register and complete a brief online survey outlining their interests and experiences. Based on your responses, you’ll be paired with a match, and you’ll stay connected throughout the academic year with monthly check-ins to ensure a supportive and impactful relationship. We’re excited to have you be a part of this journey and to make a difference together!
Mentors:
If you’re ready to make a difference and share your experience with others, we invite you to become a mentor. You can play an essential role in shaping the future of tomorrow’s leaders. Be part of a rewarding experience that allows you to grow as a leader while helping others achieve their goals.
To learn more about being a mentor click Mentor Resources.
Testimonials from past mentors:
“The reason I am volunteering as a mentor is because I want to help anyone who went through a similar experience as me to have the smoothest year possible and learn to love and appreciate the community as much as I do. I am willing to do whatever it take to ensure the success of these students and make them feel comfortable.”
“I am volunteering as a mentor in order to provide for someone else a friendly face and helpful hand in anything a mentee may be struggling with while attending this school (even if some problems I could help with do no directly relate to schoolwork). Sometimes people just need a person to rely on and to have someone to turn to when they really need help, however often that may be.”
Mentees:
Whether you’re navigating the complexities of college, exploring career options, or just looking for guidance, having a mentor can provide the support you need to succeed. Join us and find a mentor who can help you chart your path to success.
To learn more about being a mentee click Mentee Resources.
Already signed up? Log into the Orange Mentor Connect Dashboard
Frequently Asked Questions
How are mentors and mentees matched?
We use a combination of interests, goals, and preferences to create the best possible match for both mentors and mentees. This ensures that the relationship is productive and mutually beneficial.
How long is the program?
The program length is for the academic year and completes at the end of the Spring 2025 semester. However, mentors and mentees are welcome to continue relationships informally beyond then.
How often should mentors and mentees meet?
We recommend regular meetings (monthly or bi-monthly), but the frequency can be adjusted based on what works best for both parties.