Pathways: UCU Mentoring Programme
Pathways is a mentoring initiative that connects University College Utrecht students and recent graduates with alumni from around the world. Through thoughtful, one-on-one conversations, participants expand their networks, exchange valuable insights, and explore next steps in their academic or professional journeys.
For students, Pathways offers the opportunity to learn from alumni experiences and gain insight into possible career paths. For alumni, it provides a meaningful way to share perspectives, support the next generation of UCU graduates, and stay connected with the community.
Since its launch, Pathways has helped strengthen connections between generations of the UCU community, giving students access to real-world perspectives while offering alumni a meaningful way to give back and stay engaged with UCU.
Pathways returns — November 2026
A new round of Pathways is coming!
We’re excited to share that Pathways has secured funding to continue this year, bringing more opportunities for UCU students and alumni to connect through one-on-one mentoring conversations.
| Opt-In Period | Matching Date | Conversation Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 20-27 October | 2 November | 5, 7 & 10 November |
Unavailable on the proposed conversation dates? No problem! Sign up and select three times that work for you. You can coordinate directly with your match to find another date and time that suits you both.
Whether you’re exploring career paths, considering your next steps, or keen to share your experiences, Pathways is an opportunity to exchange perspectives and learn from a fellow UCU community member. We look forward to welcoming both returning and first-time participants!
As a mentor, you can:
Offer clarity and encouragement to someone exploring their next steps
Share your journey — including the pivots, lessons, and learning curves
Help students and recent grads navigate decisions about careers or postgraduate study
Reflect on your own path while giving back to the UCU community
Many mentors say that a single conversation can make a lasting difference, both for the student exploring their future and for the alum reflecting on their own journey.
As a mentee, you’ll be able to:
Ask honest questions in a low-pressure setting
Explore career paths, postgraduate opportunities, and life after UCU
Learn from real-world experiences — including challenges and turning points
Build confidence in your next steps, whether academic, personal, or professional
Whether you're considering a master’s program, exploring industries, or simply looking for direction, a mentor can help you reflect, grow, and move forward with purpose.
How It Works
- Opt In: Sign up during the registration window.
- Get Matched: After the registration window closes, we’ll pair you with a student or alum based on shared interests, industry, and experience.
- Connect: Have a 45–60 minute virtual conversation where you exchange experiences, ideas, and questions.
- Reflect & Share: After your chat, we’ll invite you to provide feedback to help us keep improving Pathways and encourage you to stay connected with your match.
We know that mentoring doesn’t just happen — it’s built on smart matching, clear goals, and meaningful exchange. With curated pairings based on background, interests, and industry, Pathways ensures that every match is relevant and rewarding. Whether you're offering guidance or seeking it, this is your chance to connect across generations of the UCU community.
Programme Impact
Pathways was first piloted in 2025 to explore how structured mentoring could strengthen connections within the UCU community. Across three pilot rounds held between May and September 2025 and a bonus round in March 2026, the programme connected 746 participants (340 alumni and 406 students or recent graduates). Feedback from participants each round has been increasingly positive: 96% said they would recommend the programme, and the average match rating was 4.5 out of 5.
Ready to join?
Sign up for Pathways between 20-27 October to connect, learn, and grow! Questions? Email us at ucu.alumni@uu.nl.