Career Mentoring Program
Dordt University’s Career Mentoring Program connects students with experienced professionals—primarily Dordt alumni—for meaningful, one-on-one guidance focused on vocation, professional growth, and life after college.
Experienced mentors investing in Dordt students
Dordt University’s Career Mentoring Program connects students with experienced professionals—primarily Dordt alumni—for meaningful, one-on-one conversations about vocation, professional growth, and life after college. Through flexible, relationship-based mentoring, mentors share insight and encouragement while helping students grow in confidence.
Why Serve as a Mentor?
Mentors in Dordt’s Career Mentoring Program come from a wide range of professional backgrounds and life experiences. Most are Dordt alumni, while others are professionals who share Dordt’s commitment to guiding students with wisdom and care.
As a mentor, you can:
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Share professional experience and practical insight
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Encourage students during key academic and career decisions
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Build meaningful, cross-generational relationships
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Participate in a flexible program designed to fit your schedule
Lisa DeKam ('98)
physical therapist“I joined hoping to offer guidance and encouragement, though I was surprised by how much I gained in return—thoughtful conversations, fresh perspective, and a renewed connection to Dordt.”
Travis De Jong ('04)
director of technology development“The mentoring program at Dordt provided me with an invaluable opportunity to connect with one of this year’s freshman engineers. I was paired with a student athlete, just as I was during my time at Dordt. That common ground helped start our conversations and gave me a better understanding of the challenges he faced, especially with balancing responsibilities and time management.”
Benefits for Students
Through the Career Mentoring Program, Dordt students have the opportunity to connect with experienced mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and professional insight.
Students can:
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Connect with mentors, including Dordt alumni, in their field of interest
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Engage in monthly online or phone conversations
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Grow in confidence, self-awareness, and professional direction
Wendy Fan ('25)
Education major“When I expressed concerns about teaching as a non-native speaker, my mentor reassured me that I spoke clearly and confidently. Her encouragement helped me trust my preparation at Dordt and grow in confidence as a future teacher.”
Will Cutler
Business: finance and entrepreneurship majorDordt's Mentorship Program has been tremendous.
I have been paired with a high-caliber individual working in a field closely related to my anticipated career. He has invested substantial time and attention into me, both over the phone and in person. It has been a huge benefit to hear his real-world perspective on issues, along with his encouragement as I move forward.
If you want to get somewhere, surround yourself with people that are already there.
I highly recommend this program.
Brooklyn Vander Veen
Social work major“This program was extremely helpful for me to assess my strengths and weaknesses and become more aware of my leadership style.”
A Thoughtful, Supported Experience
The Career Mentoring Program offers a clear framework to support meaningful conversations. Mentors and students receive suggested themes and guiding questions for each meeting, helping both participants prepare well and engage purposefully throughout the experience.
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“This opportunity was, in all honesty, an answer to prayers. Not only did I want to mentor and pass along knowledge to the next generation, but I also wanted to better my own skill set and ability to solidify and share my knowledge. The mentorship program is a win-win for everyone involved.”
Stephen Brinkerhoff ('18), physical therapist at Heritage Health and PT
About Career Mentoring at Dordt
Have questions? Reach out to Employer Relations and Mentor Coordinator Dave Schenk.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re a professional interested in mentoring or a student seeking guidance, Dordt’s Career Mentoring Program offers a meaningful way to connect, learn, and grow together.