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.

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  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.

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  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

1. Opt In: Sign up during the registration window.
2. Get Matched: After the registration window closes, we’ll pair you with a student or alum based on shared interests, industry, and experience.
3. Connect: Have a 45–60 minute virtual conversation where you exchange experiences, ideas, and questions.
4. 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, the programme connected 576 participants (271 alumni and 305 students or recent graduates). Feedback from participants was very positive: 92% said they would recommend the programme, and the average match rating was 4.5 out of 5.