RESOURCES FOR ADVISEES

1. Scheduling your Consultation:
   
   
   • When scheduling, propose three 30-minute meeting times. If the advisor is available during one of those times, the advisor will accept and your consultation will be scheduled. If the advisor is not available, the advisor may choose to propose three additional times or he or she may decline the invitation. You will be notified as soon as the advisor accepts or declines.
     
     
   • You must write an introductory message, and you have the option of uploading a résumé or another form of documentation that highlights your professional and academic background
     
     

     Sample Introductory Message

     Subject: Sophomore seeking advice on non-profit organization management.
     
     

     Dear Ms. Parker,

     My name is Justin Green, and I am a sophomore majoring in communications at SUNY New Paltz. I am extremely interested in the field of non-profit organization management and would really appreciate the opportunity to talk with you about your experiences in this field. I wanted to thank you for signing up as an advisor on the New Paltz Career and Mentorship Network and hope we can find a time within the next few weeks for a 30-minute career conversation. My résumé is attached so that you can learn more about my background. Thank you in advance for your time and have a wonderful day.
     
     Sincerely,
     Justin Green

      

2. Preparing for your consultation
   
   
   • Think about your purpose for talking with a particular alumni advisor. What would you like to learn?
     
     
   • Prepare specific, productive questions that can guide your discussion. Review these sample questions to get you started.
     
     
   • Prepare a brief introduction about yourself and be ready to talk about yourself. Attach your résumé prior to the consultation. This is recommended even if you are not doing a resume critique. It will allow the advisor to learn a little about you.
     
     
     
3. Connection to your consultation
   
   
   • Once a consultation is scheduled, both parties will receive confirmation emails that include a list of phone numbers (users select one suited for their locale) and conference code.
     
     
   • The codes will be live 10 minutes before the conference call is scheduled.
     
     
   • Once both parties call in and enter their codes, they will be connected and the consultation will begin.
     
     
4. During the Career Conversation
   
   
   • Briefly introduce yourself and your goals for this conversation.
     
     
   • Remember to keep the conversation professional. Do not ask personal questions or ask an advisor directly for job placement or internship assistance.
     
     
   • Strive to be a receptive and active listener.
     
     
     
5. Follow Up
   
   
   • Show appreciation for the advisor’s time and assistance by sending a follow up thank you message. Note that you must do this within 24 hours of the consultation, while your meeting place is still active.
     
     

     Sample Thank you message

     Subject: Thank you for your guidance
     
     

     Dear Ms. Parker:
     
     Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about career paths in non-profit management. I learned a great deal about the industry and our conversation has increased my interest in pursuing a career in this area.
     I plan to take your advice and follow up with additional alumni for additional perspectives and advice. Again, thank you for being part of the New Paltz Career and Mentorship Network. I truly appreciate the assistance you have been able to provide.

     Sincerely,
     Justin Green

      

     Career Conversation Sample Questions >