MBA Advisory Board Newsletter
August 2024
Mentor's Perspective- Joseph Paul
How has mentoring in the Graduate Business Mentor Program impacted your own professional growth? Share a specific moment that stands out.
Being a mentor with GBMP has been a great experience and has been so helpful in staying connected with the latest things going on in my field, as well what’s important to new grads looking to start or grow in their careers. I learned so much from my latest mentee Brittany about what growth minded individuals value in both their workplaces and their leaders which has helped a lot in navigating conversations with my own staff.
In your view, what makes mentorship in this program uniquely valuable for both mentors and mentees? How has it enriched your understanding of MBA students' journeys?
As a CSULB 2015 MBA graduate, so much has changed in both the academic and professional settings since then. While this was daunting at first, I quickly learned that many of the challenges students are facing today, though they often look different, translated to experiences I had in school and professionally. Serving as a mentor to Brittany, as well a other students in the program has definitely broadened my perception of the MBA journey beyond my own. It’s very rewarding to be able to share the challenges I’ve experienced over the years and what I’ve learned and have that be useful to someone on their own journey.
What would you say to professionals considering becoming mentors? What advice do you have for future mentors?
I would encourage other professionals to engage with being a mentor since it’s been such a great way to continue my growth and learning after my time at the university. In terms of advice, I would say to not let yourself potentially discount whether or not you’d be useful to someone in their MBA journey. Whether you’re more toward the end of your career, or a younger individual like myself, you’ll likely be surprised as you get to know your mentee how much you’ll be able to learn from one another.
Mentee's Perspective- Brittany Hong
How has the mentorship program provided real-world insights not covered in coursework?
The Graduate Business Mentor Program provided a valuable opportunity to connect with my mentor, Joseph. Each mentorship session involved discussions about my aspirations of earning an MBA and applying it to my career, along with insightful advice for my upcoming study abroad trip, as Joseph had previous experience working abroad. He shared practical guidance from his own journey through leadership roles, offering immediate, actionable insights that have been incredibly useful in my daily work.
Share an example of applying your mentor's advice to a real-world situation. How did it contribute to your success or decision-making?
When I began the MBA program, my goal was to secure a management position. However, by the time I met Joseph, I was more than halfway through and uncertain whether my current job would lead to the kind of management role I was seeking. Throughout the semester, Joseph guided me through the challenges of my position, helping me determine my next steps. By the end of the semester, we both agreed that I was ready for a leadership role at a new company. It was incredible how just one semester of Joseph's mentorship equipped me with the tools and confidence to land the dream job I knew was out there for me, and I am proud to now be the Player Care Manager at Angel City Football Club. Volemos!
What advice would you give to future mentees in the program?
The CSLUB mentorship program offers a unique opportunity to network, find guidance, and have a safe space to discuss what truly matters to you. For future mentees, it's important to be upfront with your mentor from the beginning about your goals, hopes, and dreams for your career and life. Even if your mentor works in a different field, city, or career path, be open to their feedback and learn from their experiences. If you build a strong connection with your mentor, like I did with Joseph, make sure to stay in touch.
