Career Mentoring Program

The Career Mentoring Program matches University of Alberta students, graduates, postdoctoral scholars, and Spousal/Partner Employment Program (SPEP) clients with experienced professionals in the community. Through one-to-one mentoring relationships, mentees gain industry insight, practical skills, and professional connections that support their transition into the workforce. Mentors act as informal coaches, role models, and advisors, helping mentees explore career options, strengthen job-search strategies, and build confidence. The program is offered once per academic year and is delivered virtually or in person over four to six months.

Service Offerings

• One-to-one career mentoring

• Career exploration and goal setting

• Industry insight and professional networking

• Skill development (transferable and self-management skills)

• Job search strategy guidance

• Professional knowledge exchange

How to Access

1. Apply to be a mentee during the open intake period.
2. After being successfully matched, pay the program fee and schedule mentoring meetings over the program term.

Hours of Operation
Offered once per academic year:
Application intake opens annually (typically late August)
Mentoring meetings scheduled flexibly by participants

What to Expect

The Career Mentoring Program offers a structured, cohort-based mentoring experience once per academic year. Mentor matching is goal-based but not guaranteed to meet all preferences. Meetings are scheduled by mentors and mentees, and outcomes depend on active participation from both. Career Education provides program coordination, resources, and administrative support throughout the program, with assistance available by email.

Cost

$75 program fee for mentees, payable after mentor matching
Incidental costs (e.g., coffee meetings) are the responsibility of participants
Fee waived for Indigenous participants (covered by Alumni Relations)
Fee waivers may be considered if cost is a barrier (by request)

Special Conditions

  • Offered once per academic year
  • Limited cohort size based on mentor availability
  • Full participation commitment required
  • Program fee payable after mentor matching (exceptions may apply)
  • Repeat participation generally not permitted
  • IDP hours may be available for eligible graduate students

Relevant Links

Career Mentoring Program

Audience: Undergraduate students, Graduate students

Home Campus: All

Delivery format: In-Person: North Campus, Virtual/Phone Meeting

Access: Application Required

Service Provider: Career Centre

Language: English