Networking Connections

Mentor Program

This program is designed to provide an opportunity for students to gain clarity on their career goals and develop their own business networks through a mentor relationship with a business professional. With the guidance and support of a mentor, students are given opportunities to observe the work environment, learn about the range of career opportunities, and develop confidence in interacting with professionals.

Networking Events

Thanks to our location in downtown Portland and our deep connections to the business professionals and alumni who work in the area, students have access to myriad networking opportunities. Most students report that they obtain their post-graduate degree employment through networking so we highly encourage them to make time to participate in these events. Examples include Connect to Community, Executive-in-Residence Program, Breakfast Business Briefings and others.

Student Groups

Many students take the opportunity to gain leadership experience and network with community members by joining a student group. Groups are organized by industry, job function or interest and there are countless ways for students to plug into an existing group or start a new group.

Advisory Councils

We stay connected to the business community through our advisory councils. The Business Advisory Council (BAC) and Graduate Alumni Ambassador Council (GAAC) are groups of industry professionals who meet with faculty, deans and staff to guide the school to best serve the needs of the community. They are also here to support students in their academic and career pursuits.

Guest Speakers and Lecturers

Industry professionals often teach classes or present at special lectures, bringing the “real world” into the classroom. Through all these opportunities, students are able to see a wide variety of business professionals from companies of all sizes and find out if those industries are ones they’re interested in.

Capstone Consulting Experience

The program offers area businesses and organizations the opportunity to “hire” PSU students who are in the final stages of their graduate-level degree program. These projects represent the full range of activities, from developing a business plan or a marketing strategy, to performing financial analysis or feasibility studies for a new product. It’s a great opportunity for students to get an inside perspective on a company of interest and gain relevant job skills.