RISE: RU’s Alumni & Student Mentoring Program

Rise Mentorship Program

What is RISE?

RISE stands for Relationship, Inspiration, Support and Engagement. This is an exciting opportunity to build meaningful relationships between friends of RU/alumni and students and create a stronger Rochester University community. Mentors can serve as positive role models while providing valuable guidance, support and encouragement to students as they navigate through the challenges of transitioning from an academic to a professional life.

RUConnect & Mentee (Student) Application »
How it Works
  • Juniors and seniors interested in participating in the RISE Mentoring Program should create a profile on the RUCONNECT platform and indicate their interest in the program.
  • Mentors (alumni and friends of RU) and mentees (students and recent RU graduates) will be paired based on the information provided on their RUCONNECT profiles.
  • The RISE Coordinator will notify each participant with the name of their mentor/mentee and provide contact and other relevant information.
  • Once paired, connect as soon as possible to agree on when and how you will communicate. For example:
    • What are the preferred communication methods?
    • How often will you meet/interact?
    • How long will a typical meeting or call last?
    • If you need to cancel a meeting or call, how will that be communicated?
  • The RISE Coordinator will contact participants periodically for progress updates. Please feel free to share your experiences and suggestions for improvement.
What is Expected of RISE Mentors
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with respect, professionalism and an open mind.
  • Respond to all communications in a timely manner.
  • Define both your goals and those of your mentee using the RISE Mentoring Program Goals as a launching point.
  • Working with your mentee, complete the RISE Mentoring Agreement and submit it to the RISE Coordinator.
  • Contact the RISE Coordinator at bphillips1@rochesteru.edu if you have any questions, concerns or issues.
What is Expected of RISE Mentees
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with respect, professionalism and an open mind.
  • Be the first to make contact and take the initiative to set up meetings with your mentor.
  • Respond to all communications in a timely manner.
  • Solicit suggestions and feedback from your mentor and be receptive to constructive criticism.
  • Define both your goals and those of your mentor using the RISE Mentoring Program
  • Goals as a launching point.
  • Working with your mentor, complete the RISE Mentoring Agreement and submit it to the RISE Coordinator.
  • Contact the RISE Coordinator at bphillips1@rochesteru.edu if you have any questions, concerns or issues.