E-Mentoring Connects Students With Ball State Alumni - Brief Article

Black Issues in Higher Education, April 12, 2001

MUNCIE, IND.

Ball State University's College of Business is testing e-mentoring as a pilot program. The program uses e-mail to bring together about 20 juniors and seniors with alumni working in the business world.

"We wanted to find out if students would better understand and learn by discussing various matters with business professionals by e-mail rather than on the phone or in person," says Tom Harris, a management professor.

Harris agreed to use his information systems class for the project. Students in the class are participating on a voluntary basis. So far, students and alumni have been exchanging information and questions, and discussing matters relevant to their occupations.

"I think we initially got several students because they are close to graduating and are thinking about entering the work force in a few months," Harris says. "The seniors were very enthusiastic. Networking is a great way to get yourself known and then find a job."

Harris plans to survey both alumni and student participants at the end of the semester to evaluate the program. E-mentoring may become a staple of the college if the program is successful.