Mariia, a senior chemistry major with a minor in data science, joined the Merrimack Professional Network last year after discovering the wide range of resources it has to offer.
The Merrimack Professional Network (MPN) is open to all Merrimack students and provides a dedicated space to connect with alumni and professionals who are eager to support students’ career development. Through the MPN, students can explore career paths, ask questions, receive mentorship and build meaningful professional relationships in a supportive and intentional environment.
Mariia began her journey by seeking a mentor who aligned with her career goals and reached out to her professors for recommendations of strong alumni to connect with. Lauren Viarengo-Baker came highly recommended and was already an active member of the MPN.
Mariia shared that her experience of reaching out to alumni on the MPN felt much more approachable than LinkedIn, since there was no need to connect first, and responses were immediate. Lauren replied right away, and they quickly began building a connection. Lauren already understood the purpose and had joined MPN as an alumnus ready to support students.
That same week, Mariia and Lauren had an introduction call. From the start, Mariia felt comfortable asking questions and receiving honest, firsthand advice from someone who had once been in her position. They continue to meet monthly, and Mariia consistently speaks very highly of Lauren.
Mariia said that through these monthly meetings, she has learned meaningful insights about the professional world as a whole. Lauren also helped Mariia with specific questions about an internship she had at the time. Mariia’s advice to any student looking for a mentor is “be consistent with meeting with a mentor. It’s really easy to just get on one call. Be sure to set goals, take notes, follow up, always email after saying thank you, and talk about your goal for the next month. Setting up the next month for success.”
Lauren connected Mariia with other professionals in her industry, further expanding her network. Through these introductions, Mariia has been able to engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals who were eager to support her in her career path.
Mariia has had such a powerful experience with her mentor, Lauren. Her recommendation to fellow students: “Absolutely get a mentor. It’s hard sometimes to find someone you truly connect with, but the more you try, you will find someone.”
Join the Merrimack Professional Network and connect with alumni ready to support your career journey. Finding a mentor through MPN is a great way to get advice, build your network, and make meaningful connections.
