Elayna Marinelli, a wildlife and conservation biology major, shared her experience participating in COLSA's STEM MentorSHIP Program. The STEM MentorSHIP (Students Harnessing Industry Perspectives) Program is a semester-long, facilitated career development experience designed for sophomores and juniors seeking insight from industry professionals. This one-on-one mentoring program provides structure for students to engage in meaningful exploration and conversations related to a field of interest.
Why did you want to participate in the STEM MentorSHIP program?
I wanted to participate in this program to gain some insights from someone working in my field and learn practical skills for a successful career in wildlife and conservation biology
How has the experience benefitted you?
This experience has expanded my professional network and highlighted the importance of actively promoting myself within the field to open doors to future opportunities.
Is there anything about the experience that surprised you?
I was surprised by how willing and eager professionals in the field are to share their knowledge and experiences with students. It made networking feel less intimidating and more like a collaborative learning process.
Would you recommend the experience to other students and if so, why?
Yes, I would definitely recommend this to other students. If you're feeling unsure about your career path, a mentor can help provide clarity and direction. My mentor's real-world experiences and advice helped me to explore different options within my field.
