E-Mentoring program for freshmen begins fall semester

Kesha Williams
June 30, 2014

This fall, ECSU will begin a new mentoring program designed to pair freshmen with wise mentors who will help them adjust to the rigors of college and plan for future careers. Victor Neal, program coordinator of the E-Mentoring and Internship Program, said 50 new freshmen will participate. Mentors—alumni, retirees, people from business, government, education and possibly the military, will volunteer to provide advice and guidance for the freshmen. The plan is for them to have bi-monthly communication with the students. The communication may take place by email, telephone, Skype and other forms of communication. According to Neal, this program will simply help young Vikings realize the wealth of opportunities ahead for them as college graduates. &quotThe program will run fall and spring semester with the goal of help students make the transition from high school to college. Once we match them with people who can readily explain the range of careers options available to graduates in their fields of study, we’ve achieved an important goal,&quot Neal said. &quotA mentor who can provide knowledge young people need in order to carefully plan their future. In some cases, these parings will lead to internships and good career options after college.&quot Neal said mentors can provide valuable information regarding standards of excellence in a particular profession, recommendations regarding credentials necessary to advance in a particular profession, the expectations of young professionals. Mentor applications will be accepted until August 8. Applications for mentors and mentees will be available online. Virtual and online training sessions will be held for mentors. To provide a safe and secure e-mentoring experience, mentors will be subject to a background check. Participants can contact Mr. Neal by email or phone, 252-335-3527, ementoring@ecsu.eduementoring@ecsu.edu