Industry Exploration Mentorship Program

The ISE Industry Exploration Mentorship Program is a collaborative initiative between the IISE Student Chapter and the ISE Department that connects undergraduate students with ISE alumni working in industry.

The program operates in two separate semester-long sessions:

Fall Semester: September–December
Spring Semester: January–April

Participants may join for either semester, and mentors may choose to participate in one or both sessions.

Students are thoughtfully matched with mentors based on shared interests, career goals, and industry preferences. Depending on student interest and mentor availability, mentorship may be structured as a one-to-one pairing or as a small group of students assigned to one mentor. Group assignments will never exceed four students per mentor.

Through regular virtual or in-person conversations, students can explore topics such as career paths, job searching, interviewing, resume development, workplace expectations, and the day-to-day responsibilities of different roles. The program gives students an opportunity to build meaningful professional relationships and gain insight into the wide range of careers available within ISE.

The program is open to all ISE undergraduate students; IISE membership is not required.

Alumni: Inspire the Next Generation of ISE Professionals

Become a mentor in the ISE Industry Exploration Mentorship Program!

We are looking for ISE alumni working in industry who are interested in sharing their experiences and insights with current undergraduate students. As a mentor, you will serve as a trusted advisor, offering guidance, encouragement, and real-world perspective as students prepare for the transition from college to their careers.

Mentors may be matched one-to-one with a student or with a small group of up to four students, depending on their preferences and program needs. Mentors may participate during the fall session, the spring session, or both.

Mentoring is a meaningful way to give back to the ISE community, expand your professional network, and support the development of future professionals. Whether you meet virtually or in person, your time and expertise can make a lasting impact.

Students: Connect, Learn, and Grow with Industry Mentors

Explore your future with guidance from experienced ISE alumni.

As a mentee, you will be matched with an industry professional whose background aligns with your interests and goals. You may participate in the fall session from September through December, the spring session from January through April, or both, depending on program availability.

Mentorship may take place one-to-one or in a small group of no more than four students. Through regular conversations with your mentor, you can gain:

Insight into different career paths and industries within ISE
Personalized advice on resumes, interviews, and job searching
Feedback on professional skills and workplace expectations
Opportunities to expand your network and build confidence
A clearer understanding of what life after graduation may look like

This program is designed for ISE students who are curious about careers in industry and ready to take initiative in their professional development. Mentees are expected to lead the relationship by contacting their mentor, scheduling meetings, setting goals, preparing questions, and actively participating in conversations.

IISE membership is not required, and the program is open to all ISE undergraduate students.

Ready to Get Involved?

Whether you are a student eager to learn from industry professionals or an alum excited to give back, the ISE Industry Exploration Mentorship Program offers an opportunity to build meaningful connections, exchange valuable perspectives, and grow professionally.

Students: Apply to be a mentee to get matched with a mentor based on your interests and goals.
Alumni & Professionals: Interested in becoming a mentor? Fill out our interest form to get started—we’ll follow up with next steps and matching details.

Questions? Contact Riya Patel (patel.5202@osu.edu) for more information.