Founder’s Mentorship Program changes students’ lives

The Founder’s Mentorship Program just concluded its inaugural year, making a difference in several undergraduates’ lives as they navigate the next steps of their academic and professional careers.

The program offered Sorin Society Founder’s Level members the opportunity to serve as advisors for undergraduate students on internships, areas of study, career development, and more. Thirteen students and mentors joined the fall and the spring cohorts, the latter of which just concluded.

Two spring participants, Michael (Mike) Hamilton and John Austin ’27, shared their perspectives on the program, which centered on the connection they built.

“Mike and I met three times throughout my sophomore year. As a finance student, the recruiting cycle starts early, and having strong mentors is essential for navigating the complex world of financial services,” John shared. He is studying Spanish and finance in the Business Honors Program with a minor in Business and the Common Good. “My experience with Mike has been truly transformative and has significantly impacted my recruitment journey.”

In response, Mike reflected: “It has truly been a pleasure to work with John in this mentorship program. In all of our discussions, John was always well prepared with very good questions, so hopefully I was helpful as a sounding board. But John did all the hard work, the preparation and interviewing, and ultimately, he’s the one who secured multiple summer job offers. So full credit to him.”

Mike and John have had the chance to connect several times, especially when John was contemplating his future employment. “What sets Mike apart,” John explained, “is that he took the time to genuinely understand me as a person, rather than simply offering blanket advice. After getting to know my interests and goals, he provided me with a realistic perspective on the trade-offs involved in various career paths within financial services.

“Beyond being an outstanding mentor, Mike has become a friend. Over the past year, our relationship has evolved beyond formal mentorship, and I truly value the connection we’ve built. I’m grateful for the incredible opportunity to meet him, and I look forward to continuing our conversations in the future!”

Mike summed up his experience as a mentor when he said, “This has been a very rewarding experience, not only because John has demonstrated success, but also because he is a genuinely good person, and I’m glad I have gotten the opportunity to know him.”

The Sorin Society seeks to advance the University’s mission by contributing to the formation of students’ hearts and minds. The Founder’s Mentorship Program is open to all Sorin Society Founder’s Level members. Please reach out to sorinsoc@nd.edu to inquire further.