Step 1 - Complete the sign-up process.
Signing up for LSA Connect is a quick process. You will be asked to enter information about your educational background as well as personal details such as campus involvement, social identities, languages, and more. Once you are approved, LSA Connect will ask you to further customize your profile by including your industries, regions, and interest topics. Through powerful algorithms, the platform will suggest alums that best match your selections and who you are most likely eager to connect with first!
Step 2 - Explore the platform.
Once you are officially a member of LSA Connect, you have many resources at your fingertips:
Explore the Community
Browse the profiles of the community of alums who have signed up for this platform specifically to be a resource for you. On an alum’s profile, you can learn about their background, education, and their current and past roles. Some alums may also choose to share social identities and orgs they were involved in while they were on campus. This can help you identify who shares your interests and who might be helpful to reach out to for advice.
Discussion Board
The discussion board is a great place to crowdsource the wisdom of the entire community! On it, you can ask questions (anonymously or as yourself), answer questions, and browse existing topics.
Resources
In the resources tab, you have access to a number of resources that will assist you in everything from setting goals to having conversations with alums.
Groups
Groups are communities focused on particular topics or interest areas, such as "Social Impact" or "Women in Finance." Groups allow students and alums to connect one-on-one and through a group-specific message board, giving you access to alums who may not be available for connections elsewhere. Groups are still forming in the platform. Have an idea for a group you’d like to pilot? Connect with us at lsa-connect@umich.edu.
Formal, Long-Term Mentoring Programs
Programs facilitate formal 1:1 mentorship programs, which range from three to nine months. The Hub’s mentorship team provides a structure that encourages you to get to know one another as individuals and cultivate a long-lasting relationship. Currently, the Applebaum Internship Program is the only formal mentorship program available, but we hope to create additional opportunities in the future.
Step 3 - Connect with alums.
Connecting with alums is the single most important part of LSA Connect. Once you find someone who matches your interests and/or goals, you can press the “Let’s Connect” button to send a message directly to them. We’ve created email templates for you, so sending messages is no longer stressful or time-consuming. Take advantage of features like booking virtual meetings with alums via inbox messaging or video chat.
