The Ohio State University

Program Overview
In addition to learning theories and best practices through the classroom experience, it is important that MBA students receive practical guidance and expertise as they navigate through industries, career choices, and business culture in general. 

We recognize that some of the best teachers to help provide guidance and expertise are corporate mentors; community business leaders who are willing to guide and advise students. Our program offers MBA students the opportunity to interact and learn from corporate mentors.  

Each year, we gather applications from successful executives and interested students for a nine-month long mentoring relationship beginning January of the first-year through October of the second-year of the MBA program. Matches take into account the student’s particular needs and career interests and the backgrounds and skills of the corporate mentors.

Program Goals
The goal of the program is to foster a successful mentoring relationship between MBA students and corporate executives, giving students the opportunity to:

     ♦   Gain exposure to the business community
     ♦   Learn about and discuss specific career paths
     ♦   Develop and cultivate a business network
     ♦   Understand the relevance of their academic studies
     ♦   See what tasks and issues executives really face
     ♦   Discuss attributes and experiences companies are truly looking for in potential candidates

Program Timeline
Students identified critical stages of the MBA program where mentoring is most needed; therefore, corporate mentors and students are matched for a nine-month mentoring experience starting in January of the first year through October of the second year of the MBA program.

Future Mentors
We recognize that you, as a corporate executive, lead a very busy life; therefore expectations regarding the amount and exact nature of activities during the program are flexible.  We ask that you have at least  two hours per month to devote to your student, but the exact commitment really depends on the individual mentor, the student and the evolution of the relationship. 

Our program is successful because our extraordinary volunteer mentors are committed to:      
     ♦   Guiding and advising students interested in their career field
     ♦   Contributing to the personal and professional development of future business leaders
     ♦   Giving back to the business community
     ♦   Maintaining contact with Fisher and The Ohio State University

If you are interested in becoming a mentor please contact our mentor program office, mbamentor@fisher.osu.edu, to receive an online application and more information.  We will then add you to our mentor portfolio.  When matched with a student we will provide you with more detailed information including a Mentor Guide with suggested discussion topics and activities to help cultivate a successful relationship. 

Student Mentee Expectations
A successful mentoring relationship truly depends on you, the student.  We ask our mentors to devote at least two hours per month to you; however, you are the catalyst to build and develop the relationship.  We expect you to engage your mentor in your academic and career goals so they may effectively guide you as needed. 

Students may enroll in the mentor program during the Autumn quarter.  Once matched with a mentor, students receive more detailed information including a Student Mentee Guide with suggested discussion topics and activities.

Program Contact
Holly Danzig
Program Director, MBA Leadership & Professional Development
(614) 292-9115
mbamentor@fisher.osu.edu