Iona University's Gaels Go Further Mentoring Program has concluded its third year with significant success. Students have reported gaining valuable knowledge from their alumni mentors and are recommending the experience to their peers. In the 2023-2024 academic year, over 100 students from diverse majors participated in the program.

The university attributes this success to the dedication of its alumni mentors. A recent survey revealed that 94 percent of student participants would recommend this experience to a peer, while 93 percent felt that participating in the program improved their sense of career preparedness.

Students who have participated in the program shared some of their experiences. One student said, "I am grateful to have been able to have many illuminating conversations with my mentor, which have propelled me to start prioritizing my future goals." Another added, "My mentor once told me you don't have to be a genius to become successful, all you need is a strong work ethic and to give it your fullest efforts."

With plans for launching an MBA Mentoring Program this spring trimester and additional mentoring programs on the horizon, Iona University continues partnering with its alumni to make mentoring a cornerstone of the Iona experience for students.

For more information about the Gaels Go Further Mentoring program or for assistance finding a mentor or mentee match, please contact David R. Nielsen, assistant director of Student-Alumni Engagement and Gaels Go Further Mentoring, at dnielsen@iona.edu or (914) 633-2410.

About Iona: Founded in 1940, Iona University is a master's-granting private Catholic coeducational institution dedicated to academic excellence and values of justice, peace and service. With campuses located just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan and an enrollment of nearly 4,000 students, Iona offers a wide array of academic programs across various schools including Arts & Science; LaPenta School of Business; NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences; and Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation.