Wasserman Center

The NYU Wasserman Center for Career Development Mentor Network

The Center’s Mentor Network helps NYU students explore careers by linking them with alumni and other professionals in a variety of fields who generously contribute their time and expertise. The program allows students an "inside look" at career options through informational interviewing, networking, and observation. Mentors gain the satisfaction of helping students make sound career decisions.

Mentoring Options

The program is adaptable to the needs of individual participants. The extent of time contributed by mentors is dependent on their availability and chosen level of participation. Mentors are available for one or more of the following options:

Day on the Job/Shadowing - Students spend a day or a few hours observing the mentor's daily work routine, gaining a "real work setting" perspective on a potential career.

In-person Informational Interview - Students meet with a mentor to discuss his/her occupation, roles, job functions, and obtain career advice and strategies.

Phone Contact - Students may call a mentor for general career-related information.


What Students Have to Say:

The morning I spent with my mentor on the job was very enlightening because I had the chance to view the criminal justice system in action. This program is very valuable for all NYU students who want information and insight into their chosen profession. --Sr., Political Science, CAS
My mentor has given me a better understanding of product management and the marketing mix...She will be a factor in whatever path I choose. --Sr., Marketing/International Business, Stern
I could not have asked for a better experience! My mentor had a number of materials relevant to my career interests ready to give me. --Jr., Psychology/Business, Gallatin
Very helpful - this program is a great resource for NYU students. --Grad Student, Elementary Education, School of Education
"She is very good for people like myself who are non-traditional age, and she changed careers like myself - a perfect match...She was great! --Soph., Management, Stern
The mentor was very patient and listened. He offered to have me call him back if I have any further questions...A+, Good Mentor. --Grad Student, Recreation, GSAS

Mentor Career Field Categories

The NYU alumni and other professionals volunteering as mentors represent an array of leading profit and non-profit organizations. Students can conduct career research by meeting with mentors in a variety of fields including:

  • Accounting
  • Visual/Performing Arts
  • Financial Services
  • Communications/Public Relations/Advertising
  • Computer Science/Information Systems
  • Education/Teaching
  • Health/Medical
  • Law/Government/Public Service
  • Management/Human Resources
  • Marketing/Sales/Retail
  • Science
  • Human Services

What Mentors Have to Say:

I had a good experience at NYU and I like to help students figure out what they want to do and where they want to go. --Partner, Law Firm
People helped me along the way...I wanted to give something back. It's satisfying to help students become informed about career choices and to learn more about the working world. --President, Interactive Technologies Business
I enjoy being a mentor. I had a couple of invaluable mentors, and I think it can be a great experience for students. --Research Analyst, Investment Bank
I did not have the benefits of a mentor when I graduated and, now that I am working, I can truly appreciate how important it can be to get insights from someone working in the field. --Administrator, Non-Profit Organization

How Students Get Involved with the Mentor Network

  • Be a matriculated undergraduate or graduate student.
  • Meet with a counselor for mentor network orientation and to discuss your general career interests.
  • Complete a registration form.
  • Conduct career research.

Would you like to become a mentor?