Virtual mentoring model helps learners build connections
When Cathy Francois presented at the 2026 College Board Forum in Las Vegas on November 6, she wasn't discussing theory. She was sharing the results of a program that helps students connect with peers, expand professional networks, and build a greater sense of belonging.
Francois, director of career services and an assistant adjunct professor at University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), co-presented on participation in Maryland’s ABCs for Student Success: Advising, Belonging, and Coaching, a University System of Maryland program made possible by a U.S. Department of Education grant. The program is designed to support learners through mentoring, engagement, and career-focused guidance.
Meeting learners where they are
To serve working adults and other nontraditional students who may never set foot on a physical campus, UMGC adapted what was originally an in-person model.
One of the key components is a peer mentoring program that connects students with fellow learners who already have career experience. The program is integrated into UMGC's CareerQuest platform, where mentors receive training and participants can communicate, meet virtually, and access resources.
"It's hosted on CareerQuest on our existing portal, so the student doesn't have to go anywhere else," Francois said. "Students have the opportunity to do one-on-one messaging. They can also have meetings on the platform, whether it's phone conferencing or video conferencing."
Many UMGC students balance coursework with careers or military service, along with family responsibilities. Rather than trying to re-create a traditional campus experience online, university teams worked together to redesign the ABC program’s activities and mentorship opportunities for a digital environment.
According to Nancy Trojanowski, EdD, the department chair of the First Year Experience at UMGC, that required rethinking many aspects of the program.
"Trainings that came with this grant were suggested as in-person events," Trojanowski said. "We adapted all of those for a virtual setting."
The effort has involved collaboration across multiple university departments, including Career Services, the Office of Student Success, and the student engagement team. Trojanowski said this cross-functional approach has been a critical factor in the program's development and success.
Building connections and belonging
Beyond career exploration, the initiative addresses an issue increasingly recognized as a pillar for student success: belonging.
For many UMGC learners, particularly first-generation college students, professional networking opportunities may not come easily. Francois noted that approximately 45 percent of mentees in recent cohorts have been first-generation students.
"They may not necessarily have someone in their network who has experience or exposure to the field that they're pursuing," Francois said. "Being able to potentially see themselves in a student who is already in the field … someone who is making their way … makes that more tangible."
Such connections can help students gain practical advice, learn about career paths, and expand their professional networks.
Benefits also extend to the mentors themselves. Trojanowski recalled one who added the experience to his resume and was subsequently given opportunities to mentor others in his workplace, resulting in an increase in pay.
Looking ahead
Student feedback suggests the program is making an impact. Francois said recent cohorts generated 118 participant reviews and earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5.
As the current grant-funded phase of the initiative continues through 2027, university leaders are already thinking about how the model could grow. One possibility is expanding mentorship opportunities to reach more students through UMGC's extensive alumni network.
"We look at a version of this where we can connect all PACE students to potential mentors," Francois said, "especially leveraging the robust alumni community that we have to connect our students."
PACE, Program and Career Exploration, is a mandatory first-year introductory class.
The presentation in Las Vegas offered an opportunity to showcase UMGC's approach to educators from around the country. But the work itself continues every day, helping students build meaningful connections with peers and mentors while fostering a sense of belonging.
UMGC Career Services are available to current students and alumni at no cost.