Our program strives to facilitate connections between detachment alumni & cadets to promote retention within cadet corps, prepare seniors for active duty, and assist new officers through the transition to their new job.

We pursue this goal by engaging with cadets using two basic approaches. Our primary interface is through a one-on-one mentoring program that pairs graduating seniors with active duty alumni. The focus here is developing the individual and preparing them for active duty. This program is governed by specific guidelines and codes of conduct that were developed jointly by the detachment and alumni association.

We also host events where our mentors have an opportunity to interface with the entire cadet corps during leadership labs and other forums. These types of events allow officers to share their personal stories and experiences to inspire cadets.

What is a mentor?

Our definition of a mentor is someone who has achieved the level of success that many of the cadets will strive to attain, who can help guide them through their active duty journey.

Why does a cadet need a mentor?

It provides cadets a valuable opportunity to further develop professional and leadership skill sets that can contribute to stronger job performance & career progression on active duty.

Studies suggest that early mentorship can help improve promotion rates with minority officers.

Our one-on-one mentoring program facilitates a connection between an active duty alumni and a cadet. The connections are assigned through collaboration between the detachment and alumni association. The participants will sign a mentoring “contract” where the mentor and mentee will establish mutually agreed upon meeting intervals, venues, and boundaries.

Topics of discussion will include common areas where junior officers have often sought or needed guidance. Mentors should feel free to either use their own experiences in guiding these discussions or refer their mentees to other subject matter experts at their discretion

The proposed list of topics includes (but not limited to):

Personal: Finding a place to live; Budgeting and Investments; Participating in professional organizations; Work life balance; DoD programs & resources for families

Work Environment: Establishing initial expectations with supervisor; Workplace and email etiquette; Adjusting to mainstream society and cultural differences; Dealing with workplace conflict

Job & Leadership: Career field expectations; Job skills; Supervising, Utilizing your Enlisted Members; Working with federal civilians and contractors

Managing Your Career: Writing OPRs and award packages; Building goals; Career broadening and other special programs; Lessons learned for prior enlisted transitioning to office corps