Stony Brook University’s Career Center is seeing growth in its mentoring platform, Mentor Connect, which aims to connect students and alumni for career guidance and networking. The platform now has more than 3,200 users since its launch nearly two years ago.
“Nearly two years since its launch, Mentor Connect has quickly become one of Stony Brook’s most impactful engagement tools, growing to over 3,200 users and transforming how students, alumni and Seawolf friends connect,” said Marie Parziale, manager of alumni career services.
Marie Parziale and Margot Palermo, manager of alumni student engagement, attribute the program’s success to the willingness of alumni to share their experiences with current students. They say this sharing helps provide valuable career advice while strengthening ties within the university community.
“I like to describe Mentor Connect as the Seawolf LinkedIn. Students can gain direct access to real-world guidance, valuable industry perspectives and a network of professionals who can help them navigate career decisions and open new doors,” said Palermo. “Mentor Connect has flourished with active mentorship matches, thriving career communities and increased participation in panels, speaker sessions and networking events.”
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by Stony Brook University to foster connections between students and graduates through structured mentorship opportunities.
