HLS Professional Mentor Program

Get to know the HLS Professional Mentor Program

The Hamilton Lugar School is one of the many at Indiana University to partner with Mentor Collective to offer professional growth opportunities through the power of Mentorship. Mentor Collective matches HLS students with a professional mentor in the student’s area of interest to grow their network, understand their ideal career path, and offer a lifelong mentorship.

Who they are
Participating mentors are alumni and friends of HLS with careers in global fields, ranging private, public and nonprofit sectors. Some work at places like Eli Lilly, Booz Allen Hamilton, US Department of State, The International Center, and the Embassy of Qatar, while others are pursuing graduate degrees in law, public affairs, and international studies. 

Mentor expectations
Mentors meet with students at least once a month (virtually, for now) to grow their relationship, offering advice on studies and careers and answering questions such as:

  • What was an experience you found essential in your academic career that led to your professional career?
  • What kind of internships did you participate in that helped you get to your current position?
  • How has your career path changed from when you were in college to now?
“Trying to figure out how to parlay your skills, interests, and experiences into a career path can be intimidating. In working with my mentor, I was not only able get feedback on the tangibles, like my resume and cover letters, but was also able to have conversations about the intangibles, like work-life balance and continuing education. The transition to life after college takes a village, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had a mentor who supported me throughout the process, offering valuable perspectives, insights, and advice.” - Moira Corcoran (BS 2019) International Studies
“[My mentor] has been a great help to me throughout the mentorship process. Her offering advice, resources, and support and understanding has significantly improved my confidence throughout the job search process, particularly at such a difficult time to be beginning a career!” - Tyler Combs(BA, 2020) Russian and East European Studies & Political Science