SMU Cox Mentorship Programs

Discover mentorship opportunities designed to connect Cox students at every stage of their education with experienced professionals who can help them grow, lead and prepare for what’s next.

Learn from experience. Grow through connection.

At SMU Cox, some of the most valuable lessons happen through the relationships you build. Across undergraduate, Specialized Master’s and MBA programs, Cox creates thoughtfully matched, supported mentorship experiences that connect students with professionals who can offer perspective, share what they’ve learned and help students navigate the opportunities and decisions that shape a career. 

These meaningful connections complement classroom learning, helping students build confidence, broaden their perspective and prepare for what comes next. 

 

Current Students

Find the mentorship program that’s right for you 

Cox mentorship programs are designed around the different goals and experiences of undergraduate, Specialized Master’s and MBA students. Explore the opportunity created for you. 

side building of smu cox

B.B.A. Mentor Alliance

For undergraduate students 

Explore career possibilities, develop strong professional habits and build confidence through the perspective of a mentor who can help you navigate the early stages of your career journey.

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courtyard view of Fincher hall at SMU Cox

M.S. Career Advisory Board

For Specialized Master’s students 

Gain field-specific guidance and industry perspective to help you chart the accelerated transition from specialized graduate study to your next career opportunity. 

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diagonal angle of smu cox building

Cox Mentorship Academy

For MBA students 

Draw on the perspective of experienced senior leaders as you advance your leadership capabilities, maneuver complex career goals and build relationships for long-term professional growth.

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I'm still in touch with my mentor from the program. She is a treasure!

Meredith McAlister, MBA '20

 

Become a Mentor

Become a mentor. Share your experience. Shape what comes next.

The Cox community extends far beyond the classroom. SMU alumni, Cox alumni and members of the business community bring mentorship to life by sharing their experience, perspective and encouragement with the next generation of business leaders. Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned executive, there may be a Cox mentorship opportunity that fits your experience and the impact you want to make.

graphic of mentor stats table

Frequently Asked Questions

No. While many mentors are SMU or SMU Cox alumni, mentorship opportunities are also available to friends of SMU and members of the business community who bring relevant professional experience. Because each program serves students at a different stage of their development, mentor experience and eligibility requirements vary by program.

Mentors and students should expect to connect regularly throughout their program, typically through a monthly one-on-one conversation. Specific program length, meeting cadence, training and event requirements vary by program. Participants also receive suggested topics and resources to help them prepare for and make the most of their conversations.

Each SMU Cox mentorship program uses a thoughtful matching process designed around the needs and goals of its students. Depending on the program, factors may include career and industry interests, professional goals, job function, target companies or markets, background and shared interests. The Cox Mentorship Academy for MBA students also incorporates student applications, career coach insight, mentor style and experience level into its personalized matching process. Students do not select their mentors independently.

SMU Cox mentorship programs serve students at different stages of their education. The B.B.A. Mentor Alliance is available to eligible undergraduate students, the M.S. Career Advisory Board serves students in SMU Cox M.S. programs and the Cox Mentorship Academy is available to eligible MBA students. Participation requirements vary by program, so visit the individual program pages for specific eligibility and commitment information.

For students, your degree program will determine which mentorship opportunity is designed for you. The B.B.A. Mentor Alliance helps undergraduate students explore career possibilities, develop professional habits and build confidence. The M.S. Career Advisory Board helps M.S. students gain industry insight and professional connections as they work toward goals such as advancing in their field or making a career pivot. The Cox Mentorship Academy connects MBA students with experienced senior leaders for perspective on leadership development, career advancement and longer-term professional goals.

For prospective mentors, the best fit depends on your experience and the type of student you would most like to support. Explore our mentoring opportunities.

Application and participation timelines vary by program. B.B.A. Mentor Alliance applications for the upcoming academic year open near the end of the spring term and are emailed directly to eligible students. M.S. Career Advisory Board participation is coordinated through the M.S. career experience, with student information collected in August. Cox Mentorship Academy operates in two mentorship cycles during the academic year (September-January; January-May). Visit the individual program pages for current participation information and important dates.

A strong mentoring relationship takes time to develop, and differences in background, experience or perspective can sometimes lead to valuable conversations. If you have concerns about your match or are having difficulty establishing a productive mentoring relationship, contact your program administrator for guidance and support.