SCEEES Leadership & Mentoring Network
Connecting Students and Industry Professionals
Welcome to the Leadership & Mentoring Network - a unique opportunity for Clemson undergraduate students in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (SCEEES) to connect with passionate alumni and industry professionals.
This 7-month, structured mentoring program pairs undergraduate and graduate students with professionals in their field of interest to support career exploration, next steps beyond graduation, transition into industry, goal-setting, and personal growth.
Why Join the Network?
The Leadership & Mentoring Network is designed to benefit both students and mentors by creating meaningful, professional relationships rooted in shared goals, industries, and aspirations.
As a student mentee, you will:
- Receive career advice directly from people working in the field.
- Learn about different industries, job roles, and what to expect after graduation.
- Build a network of connections to support job searches and graduate school decisions.
- Develop confidence and communication skills.
- Form a lasting mentoring relationship that may extend beyond graduation.
As a mentor, you will:
- Give back to Clemson by supporting the next generation of engineers and applied scientists.
- Make a lasting impact on a student’s academic and professional journey.
- Share your expertise and industry insights in a structured, rewarding way.
- Reconnect with the university and fellow alumni through a meaningful volunteer opportunity.
- Gain fresh perspectives from students preparing to enter your field.
How to Apply
Student Mentee Application
Opens: March 13, 2026
Deadline: First Round: April 30, 2026; Second Round: September 30, 2026
Spots are limited - Early Applications are Highly Encouraged
Student ApplicationClemson Alumni & Industry Professionals
Make a difference in a student’s journey by sharing your experience and insight. Apply today or contact Corey Ellison to schedule a meeting to learn more.
Deadline: August 15, 2026
Mentor Application
Leadership & Mentoring Network a roaring success
Clemson University civil engineering alumnus Tom Rochester built a successful company in Charlotte, but when he looks back, what first comes to mind isn’t the projects. It’s the relationships. “The legacy I want is to make it go viral– that everybody I touch is able to feel the same passion to go out and make other people’s lives better by virtue of offering their time and skills to help."
Mentorship Goes Viral“At the beginning, I didn’t know what I was signing up for and was a bit worried about the responsibilities that might come with it. However, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made my time here at Clemson, and I believe it will have a long-lasting impact on me even after I have left.”
John Mark AsareEnvironmental Engineering & Science
“It’s very rewarding as a mentor to give back to Clemson by sharing our experiences with the students! Go Tigers!”
Robert DuvallVirginia Natural Gas
Application and Mentoring Process
The Leadership & Mentoring Network runs from September 2026 to April 2027.
Application & Selection
Apply early! Student Applications will be reviewed each week, and student applicants will be notified of acceptance on a rolling basis.
Orientation & Kickoff
- Mentor Orientation - September 2026
- Student Mentee Orientation - October 2026
Matching & 1st Connection
Mentor-Student Mentee Matching Event - October 2026
Mentoring Journey
Mentors and student mentees connect monthly from November to April, either virtually or in person.
Celebration & Reflection
End of Experience Celebration - April 2027
Common Questions and Answers
One of the most common questions we get is, "Who can participate in the Leadership and Mentoring Network program?"
Sophomore or Junior students in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences. This includes undergraduates with Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Biosystems Engineering, and Geology majors.
-
Does the program have an associated cost?
We’re excited to offer students the chance to participate at absolutely no cost—making it easier than ever to get involved.
-
Can I participate if I have a minor within SCEEES?
Currently, participation is available to undergraduate students whose major is listed within SCEEES. We anticipate expanding opportunities within the program in the future.
-
Can graduate students within SCEEES participate?
Yes. Graduate students may participate in the Leadership & Mentoring Program.
-
How are students matched with mentors?
Students are matched based on a variety of criteria, including program area, emphasis area, post-graduation industry focus, and interests communicated in the Student Mentee Application and the Mentor Application.
-
How many times do I need to meet with my mentor?
Over the 10-month program, you should plan to meet with your mentor, either in person or virtually, at least once a month. The time and date of your meetings will be jointly determined between you and your mentor. Times of meetings will vary based on your collective availability and preference throughout the experience.
-
Do I have to meet in person?
Once matched, you will coordinate your meeting schedule with your mentor. These meetings can take place either in-person or virtually, based on your joint preferences and availability. If meeting in person, SCEEES can assist with booking meeting spaces on campus. Please just reach out to Corey Ellison to secure a space.
Meet the 2026-2027 Mentors
Powered by Clemson Connections
This program is a pilot program of the Leadership & Mentoring Network. It is proudly supported by the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (SCEEES) and supported by passionate Clemson donors and friends of the University.
Interested in supporting the Leadership & Mentoring Network? Contact Doug Gray to learn more about how you can make an impact and help continue to shape the engineering and applied scientists of tomorrow.
