Mentor Circles

Mentor Circles offer alumni a meaningful way to share their expertise with students and alumni. Each Mentor Circles is a one-time or recurring discussion led by an alum and brings together groups of two to 12 participants. This format is ideal for alumni who can only spare an hour or two. This program expands the reach of their expertise by mentoring multiple people at once for a short period of time.

Mentees can learn from an industry or subject-matter expert and ask questions in a small-group setting. Participants also gain value by learning from one another and meeting other alumni or students with similar career interests, helping broaden their Northwestern network and build community.

Email to Apply

How it Works

1. Apply to Host a Mentor Circle
   Mentor Circles are open to all alumni, regardless of career stage. Alumni interested in hosting a Mentor Circle are encouraged to email us at mentor@northwestern.edu. Applications are reviewed by submission to ensure Mentor Circle meets the needs of participants. Applicants can expect to hear from the program administrator within two weeks to schedule a follow-up.
2. The Mentor Will Determine a Topic
   The alumni mentor and a staff member will discuss the logistics, format, and potential topics and audience. Mentors choose the theme, often based on their field or a career-focused topic such as navigating transitions or work-life balance. They also decide how many alumni or students will participate and submit a request to host a circle.
3. The Mentor and Support Staff Handle Logistics
   The mentor sets the date, time, and location, while the Mentorship Program administrator supports promotion and recruitment. Interested alumni or students then sign up to participate in the circle.
4. The Mentor Circle Takes Place
   Mentor Circles can be held in person or virtually via Zoom, depending on the locations of the mentor and participants. Most in-person Mentor Circles take place on campus or in offices, restaurants, or coffee shops.