Lutgert Mentorship Program | Florida Gulf Coast University

Mentors Open Doors

Our local Business Professionals make our program truly special.

12 Weeks

One semester program designed to fit in busy students schedules

6 Sessions

Meetings that work for you - flexible, concise, and impactful

1 Event

Kickoff Reception

WHY SHOULD I BECOME A MENTOR? WHY SHOULD I BECOME A MENTEE?

Through the Lutgert Mentorship program, I gained valuable insight into the world of business and professionalism. My mentor became a trusted role model, guiding me toward opportunities and encouraging me to get out of my comfort zone. The relationship we built is a true testament to the impact the program has and the lessons I learned will benefit me throughout my life and career.”

Natalia Perez

Management '24

Through the Lutgert Mentorship Program, I not only grew my professional skills, but also gained the confidence to take on new challenges as I stepped outside my comfort zone. I am grateful for my mentor, Mike Divico, whose wisdom and experience as a professional in the Logistics Sector guided and prepared me to enter the workforce and face its many challenges. I’m excited to continue to build upon the lessons I learned in this program as I navigate towards my future endeavors”

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Computer Information Systems '24

An initiative of Dean Chris Westley, the Lutgert Mentorship Program seeks to leverage the academic success of Lutgert College of Business students by matching them with mentors in their fields of study and interest as they prepare for productive careers as Lutgert alumni. With a mission to promote the professional development of the student and his or her business success, this program facilitates meaningful connections between students and individuals in their chosen industry. Lutgert Mentors are committed to sharing knowledge, advice, and constructive feedback to assist students in the transition from college to the real world in relationships that could last long after graduation. Housed under Lutgert’s brand-new Center for Business Success, the Lutgert Mentorship Program focuses on preparing students for the workforce and becoming future industry leaders.

Building and strengthening relationships with a new generation

''Business is about risk and reward, relationships and service, and mentorship programs are about establishing intentional and strategic connections between our students and the productive class’’

- Dr. Chris Westley

Read the full article on Gulfshore Business

Have questions about our Mentorship Program?

Talk with our Mentorship Program Coordinator to get the details you need to get started.

Program Quicklinks

Program Deadlines

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Deadline / Activity / Event	Fall Semester Program	Spring Semester Program
Application Window	April 1st – June 30th	October 1st – November 30th
Acceptance Notification & Matchmaking	July 15th Notification will be sent through email on or before this date	December 15th Notification will be sent through email on or before this date
Onboarding Meetings	July 15th – August 15th Onboarding Meetings are for Students/Mentees ONLY	December 15th – January 15th Onboarding Meetings are for Students/Mentees ONLY
Kickoff Reception	RSVP by August 15th Event date and details will be announced in Acceptance Notification email This event is the official program start date	RSVP by January 15th Event date and details will be announced in Acceptance Notification email This event is the official program start date
Mentorship Sessions	Complete all sessions by November 15th Six session minimum / each 1-hour in length	Complete all sessions by April 15th Six session minimum / each 1-hour in length

Eligibility Requirements
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Mentors

Professional in the field with significant experience (10+ years) and firsthand knowledge of business issues and the profession.

To have a range of experience that allows them to provide career assistance, direction, guidance, support, and feedback and serve as an advocate for the mentee.

They must have a genuine interest in the growth and personal development of the mentees.

Apply to be a Mentor

Mentees

Current student enrolled in the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU.

Student must be willing to receive support and guidance on their career and professional development goals from an experienced professional.

Student must be committed to the program and take the initiative to drive their personal and professional development.

Student must be in good standing in their degree programs. Minimum FGCU GPA of 3.0.

Student must be a full-time student.

Student must be Junior or Senior (60 credits accomplished).

Apply to be a Mentee
How to apply?
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- Selected students are required to attend 1 mandatory onboarding meeting.
- Start by submitting your online application:
  - Mentor Application
  - Mentee Application
How does it work?
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1. Application Window:
  Start by submitting your online application. This application will assist us in matching students (mentees) with the most appropriate mentor. The application is a concise and friendly online survey-type form.
  - Mentor Application
  - Mentee Application
2. Acceptance Notification & Matchmaking:
  All accepted participants will be notified via email of their matching. Please note, mentors and mentees are responsible for communicating promptly any discrepancies or impediments to continuing with the program. Mentors will receive a digital packet containing the student’s resume, customized program materials including different resources/suggestions to maximize the mentorship experience. Mentees and Mentors will receive an invitation from the Dean to participate in Lutgert Mentorship Program Kickoff Reception.
3. Onboarding Meetings:
  Student Mentees must attend an Onboarding Meeting. Mentees will learn more about the program’s mission, participant expectations, program benefits, and requirements. In-person and online options will be available.
  - This meeting must be completed prior to the the Kickoff Reception which is the official program start date.
  - Any potential issues must be resolved prior to the the Kickoff Reception which is the official program start date.
4. Kickoff Reception:
  Attend the Kickoff Reception, a breakfast meet and greet to get the program started. This will be the first official interaction between the student mentee and the mentor. The event has the purpose of hosting and celebrating the Program Matches.
5. Mentorship Sessions:
  Mentees and Mentors must meet at least six times during the Lutgert Mentorship Program. Additionally, participants will receive a list of special invitation FGCU events they can attend together. Students are responsible for providing updates on mentor program goals and activities through biweekly Canvas check-ins. Mentor will submit an assessment of the student mentee on their success and achievement of the mentee's goals as well as overall performance in the program. At the end of the program, student mentees must submit a reflection paper (one-page length) describing the outcomes of the professional match.
6. Program Completion:
  Students will receive a Lutgert Mentorship Program Certificate upon the successful conclusion of the program / Mentors will receive special recognition from Dean Chris Westley for their service in the Lutgert Mentorship Program.

Why Be a Mentor?

Contribute to the development of the region's future leaders by transferring skills and knowledge.
Enhance coaching and mentoring skills
Expand your professional network and build new relationships with the Lutgert College of Business
Give back to the community and university by supporting young professionals
Gain new insights and perspectives on the latest industry and community trends
Strengthen the talent pipeline of SWFL
Invitation to exclusive Lutgert Mentorship events with campus leadership

Apply to be a Mentor

Why Be a Mentee?

Enhance your understanding of the industry
Build your professional network with industry leaders
Mentee Only Invitations to exclusive networking events on campus
Enhanced job opportunities
Opportunity to practice, refine and enhance career readiness competencies
Develop your own leadership style

Apply to be a Mentee

Lutgert News | MentorshipSee All

Professional Development Skills Course Bridges the Gap Between the Classroom and the Workforce

April 05, 2023 / Lutgert News / Tags: Accounting, Advertising, Agribusiness, Economics, Finance, Information Systems & Operations Management, Management, Marketing, Mentorship, New Course, PGA Golf Management, Real Estate, Resort & Hospitality, Sales, Undergraduate

The Lutgert College of Business remains in constant contact with industry partners to make sure our graduates have the knowledge employers are looking for. This consistent communication has led to new majors in Supply Chain Management and Data Analytics, integration of advanced MS Excel skills into the accounting curriculum, and a new concentration in International Business for management majors. Yet the most frequent request across disciplines and majors is the need for “soft skills”: networking with clients, giving effective presentations, writing professional communications. Even a handshake can make the difference between clinching a deal or losing a client.