Why Mentor The Role Support Eligibility Become a Mentor
Fuel the Fire launches August 1 — powering more student mentorships Preview the campaign
Volunteer Mentor Program · 100% virtual

Shape the next generation of leaders.

1 Hour/Month 12 Months Flexible Schedule 100% Virtual

Share your professional expertise with undergraduate students through personalized one-on-one mentorship. We provide this $3,000-value program completely free to students — your time goes directly to changing lives, not generating profit.

Become a Mentor Register for Info Session

A light lift with a heavy impact.

Volunteer Opportunity Listed On
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Students are waiting for mentors in these fields — and more
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Why mentor

What you'll gain.

Mentoring is a rewarding experience that enriches both you and your student.

Personal Fulfillment

Find joy in giving back, knowing you're making a positive impact on the next generation of professionals.

Leadership & Coaching Skills

Hone your leadership and coaching abilities, which are valuable for personal and professional growth.

Stay Current with Trends

Learn about new technologies, trends, and perspectives that younger generations bring, keeping you informed and engaged.

Strengthened Network

Connect with other mentors, faculty, and young professionals, expanding your professional reach.

Legacy & Influence

Leave a legacy by shaping future leaders, influencing industries, and fostering a culture of giving back.

Fresh Perspectives

Engaging with students offers new ways of thinking, problem-solving, and viewing the world.

What you'll do

The role, plainly.

No curriculum to write, no lectures to prepare — just your experience, one student, and a clear set of expectations.

01

Goal Setting

Guide students in identifying and establishing clear personal and professional development objectives.

02

Knowledge Sharing

Share practical professional experience and industry insights to bridge academic theory and real-world application.

03

Resource Direction

Connect students with appropriate resources, tools, and learning materials aligned with their goals.

04

Monthly Commitment

Dedicate approximately 1.5 hours per month including prep time to maintain consistent engagement.

05

Professional Guidance

Provide insights on leadership skills, management practices, and professional growth opportunities.

06

Network Introduction

Facilitate connections to professional networks, industry contacts, and career opportunities when appropriate.

07

Growth Accountability

Support and monitor student progress toward their academic and professional goals throughout the mentorship.

08

Monthly Reporting

Submit a brief one-minute meeting update after each session to support effective program management.

From your peers

Mentors on mentoring.

Working and retired professionals, in their own words.

Lara

Mentoring for me is one of the most rewarding experiences available. Being part of a person's journey to self improvement… I always feel I get back as much as I give. The Sparks Mentorship platform is one of the best that I have experienced.

Lara Mentoring alongside a full-time career
John

As a global executive I had a chance to mentor many associates from all walks of life… the Sparks Mentorship Program gave me an avenue to continue this in retirement. The tools that are provided make the mentor's job much easier.

John Mentoring in retirement
Ryan

The Sparks program is a simple and easy way for me to give back and help students navigate an increasingly complex business world. Mentoring has allowed me to sharpen my listening and leadership skills.

Ryan Full-time professional
Read all mentor testimonials →
Resources & support

You won't be alone.

The platform carries the structure so you can focus on the conversation.

Lumen Goal Tracker

AI-guided goal tracking and session guidance that keeps every mentorship moving forward.

Activity Library

Pre-packaged activities ready to use with your student — from career exercises to conversation starters.

Monthly Mentor Huddles

Optional monthly sessions to ask questions, share best practices, and hear program updates from fellow mentors.

Student Resources Access

Full visibility into all student tools so you can integrate them into your mentorship conversations.

Growth Accountability

Support and monitor student progress toward their academic and professional goals throughout the mentorship.

Professional mentor
From first hello to final handshake — onboarding, guidance, and a community of mentors behind you.
Eligibility

Who can mentor & be mentored.

Mentor Eligibility

  • Retired and active professionals from diverse industries
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience
  • Minimum of 5 years in a management/leadership role (or strong experience developing others)
  • Passion for teaching and sharing knowledge
  • College graduate or other college experience
  • Commitment to supporting and guiding college students

Student Eligibility

  • Undergraduate students attending a US college
  • Graduating high school seniors through rising college seniors may apply
  • A commitment to personal growth and academic achievement
  • Commitment to learning from experienced professionals
  • Time commitment: 1 hour per month for 12 months
  • Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis

Your experience is exactly what a student is hoping for.

Students are accepted year-round, and there are always more waiting than mentors to match them with. One hour a month is all it takes.

Our Sparks Mentor Anthem
Become a Mentor Register for Info Session
Fully virtual · 12 months · no teaching experience needed · see the students waiting →
Stay connected

Not ready yet? Stay in touch.

Get occasional updates on the program, our students, and ways to help.