This fall, 12 inquiring juniors and seniors have embarked on a yearlong mentorship program that pairs them with a diverse group of accomplished alumni to explore industries and career paths beyond their high school journey. King Connects, a new student and alumni mentorship program, follows an intentional curriculum designed by history teacher Lindsey Rossler, the Director of Talent Development.
“We are helping students to meet their potential, not their expectations,” Rossler said. “The 12 student mentees are taking classes and engaged in extracurricular activities that allow them to learn about their interests. The alums offer the chance for them to learn more from someone who has followed their path and can offer expertise, guidance, and field experience, which will help them reach their potential.”
During a recent orientation session, mentors emphasized the significant impact of building a strong network and having access to a mentorship program such as King Connects.
“I had informal mentors in college but never considered [seeking] a mentor in high school,” lifer Alex Doering KLHT’08 said. “Seeing the students who want to learn from the alums early on is impressive.” Mia Schipani LHT’84, founder of Schipani PR, shared with students that she had built most of her business by staying connected to her network, including fellow Low-Heywood Thomas graduates.
With representation spanning decades of our alumni body, mentors will guide the students in discussions and discovery around resume building, goal setting, and the power of networking. Co-creator of the King Connects program Steve Sheehan KLHT’07 reminded the mentors: “Campus has changed since the time you may have graduated. Our name, our colors, our buildings. What hasn’t changed is the caliber of a King student and the passion they demonstrate.”
King Connects will not only advance the mission of the school and foster a lifetime love of learning but also strengthen the bonds between students and alumni, creating relationships that last a lifetime and bridge generations of King graduates. If you would like to be considered as a mentor for the next cohort of King Connects students, please contact alumni@kingschoolct.org.