Mentoring Process Frequently Asked Questions

How does mentor selection work?

It's easy! After registration, students will receive a link to review all the available mentors. The selection portal will include their graduation year, degrees, industry, current company, former roles, hobbies, and more. This ensures you can find the perfect match that aligns with your interests and aspirations.

How quickly do I need to select a mentor?

Mentor selection works on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once a mentor is chosen by a student, they disappear from the list of available mentors. So, act fast to find your ideal mentor and supercharge your journey to success!

What happens after the selection?

The PSIMES mentoring committee reviews the pairing and sends both the student and mentor an email with each other's contact information. It is the mentor’s responsibility to reach out to the student within the first two weeks of the approval email, but students should also feel free to break the ice.

What should we talk about during our first meeting?

Both the student and mentor should talk about their background, interests, and career goals. It’s also important to talk about the frequency of communication and how each party prefers to communicate. Both people should be honest about their expectations to be able to build strong relationships.

What other topics should we talk about?

PSIMES mentorship can cover a variety of hot topics, such as:

  • Picking the perfect major (for undergrads)
  • Exploring different career paths
  • Diving into specific industries or professions
  • Polishing those leadership skills
  • Expanding your professional network
  • Crafting the ultimate resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile
  • Nailing those job interviews
  • Mastering the art of job offer negotiations
  • Transitioning smoothly into the workplace
  • Sharing those amazing workplace experiences
  • Considering advanced degrees and further education

What happens if we’re not a good match?

If the match isn't quite right after the first meetup, that is okay! Please send an email to PSIMESmentoring@gmail.com explaining the situation and our team will happily help you find the perfect match!

Join PSIMES Mentoring Program today and embark on a rewarding journey of personal and professional growth!

 
 

About

Home of the first established industrial engineering program in the world, the Harold and Inge Marcus Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (IME) at Penn State has made a name for itself in the engineering industry through its storied tradition of unparalleled excellence and innovation in research, education, and outreach.

We are Innovators. We are Makers. We are Excellence in Engineering. We are Penn State IME.

The Harold and Inge Marcus Department of
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

310 Leonhard Building

The Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA 16802-4400

Phone: 814-865-7601

FAX: 814-863-4745