The Veteran Student Success Center (VSSC), in partnership with Citadel alumni Jim Whetstone, launched a mentorship program in Spring 2023 to connect our Veteran and Active Duty students with a member of the community who has similar interests and experience in the student’s chosen career path.
This voluntary program provides the student with an opportunity to engage in a mentorship relationship with a valued member of The Citadel and/or Charleston community. Mentees (students) will meet with their mentors on a regular basis as well as attend four (4) informational sessions throughout the school year which will cover topics such as personal finances, setting goals and leadership skills.
“My mentee has experience not only in the private sector as an executive in the sports industry but also as an entrepreneur and a 25-year military career. He has taught me a lot and helped me better define my goals for my career and life.”
Austin Hronek, Student, 2024
To read more about Austin’s experience in the mentorship program, click here.
Student Requirements
The veteran and active duty student mentorship program is open to students…
- Enrolled in classes at The Citadel as a Day Student,
- In their Sophomore, Junior or Senior year in their undergraduate program,
- Have a 2.5 GPA or higher, and
- Commit to attending four (4) informational sessions, typically taking place in the evenings, throughout the school year as well as regular meetings with your mentor whether in-person or virtually.
FAQs
Who are the mentors and how are they chosen for each student?
All of our mentors are members of the local Charleston community who have found success in their chosen career path. Our mentors include former company owners, high level executives, military service members and entrepreneurs. Several of them are Citadel graduates, however that is not a requirement to participate. Many of them also have served in the military however, again this is not a requirement to participate.
Program leadership attempts to match mentees with a mentor who has similar career and/or life goals as the mentor or a similar background. Mentors and mentees each receive a questionnaire at the beginning of their participation outlining several factors including their life goals, military experience, career goals and academic interests.
What if my mentor is not a good fit?
If your mentor is not the right fit for you, we are happy to discuss and match you with another mentor, although this is rare, we are committed to finding you the right mentee to help you succeed.
What are the benefits of participating in the Mentorship Program?
The program is an opportunity to gain insight and advice from a successful member of the community who has likely followed a similar career path as your intended one or has already met goals similar to yours. This is an invaluable resource who can not only guide you but can also provide a connection to your chosen career field.
Sign Up
To sign up for the program please fill out the form linked below. Program leadership will evaluate your application and provide you with a response within a week as to your eligibility.
Questions:
Melissa West
Associate Director, VSSC
(843) 953-4706
mwest5@citadel.edu