Zankel Experience Network (ZEN) Mentoring Program
The ZEN Mentoring Program connects Skidmore students, starting in their junior year, with alumni who share similar career interests. This program offers students valuable guidance and insights as they navigate their academic and professional journeys.
overview
Student-mentor pairs meet regularly throughout the academic year, either virtually or in-person, to engage in meaningful mentorship. Mentorship may include:
- Setting Career Goals: Helping students identify their career aspirations and the steps required to achieve them.
- Career Resources and Strategies: Sharing effective career strategies and tools that mentors have used in their own professional journeys.
- Reviewing Application Materials: Providing feedback on resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and other professional documents.
- Networking Opportunities: Facilitating connections and recommending networking events or professional opportunities.
the ZEN community
To foster a sense of connection, student participants are invited to attend informal campus meetings throughout the year. These gatherings allow students to connect, reflect on challenges, and share their experiences. Mentors are also invited to participate in virtual meetups, providing an opportunity for broader interaction and learning.
This program is designed to support both students and alumni in building lasting, meaningful professional relationships while developing the tools for career success.
2024-2025 ZEN Mentoring Program and Application
We’re excited to be able to accommodate 60 student-mentor pairs in 2024-2025. Members of the class of 2026 are invited to apply this summer and will attend a brief orientation session if accepted. Matched student-mentor pairs will begin meeting when the program kicks off in early October.
About the ZEN Network
The Zankel Experience Network was established in 2020 by trustee Jimmy Zankel ’92 and Pia Scala-Zankel ’92 to build on and encourage the support of like-minded donors who hope to expand Skidmore’s commitment to experiential learning, including the Summer Experience Fund, SEE-Beyond Awards, Faculty-Student Summer Research, and the ZEN Alumni Mentoring Program.