Fast Start Mentorship Program

What is FastStart?

FastStart is a mentorship program supported by the Penn State Alumni Association. FastStart was formed in 1996 to enrich the student experience of Penn State first year students who identify from underrepresented populations. Since its inception FastStart has supported matriculation, persistence, academic achievement and professional development of Penn State students.

How it works:

FastStart operates using a triad mentorship model, first–year students (Mentees) are matched with a Penn State faculty/staff mentor and alumni (Mentors). This will support mentees to get their college career off to a “FastStart” by supporting students to flourish in their new university environment.

Alumni & Faculty/Staff who complete the registration process will be eligible to be matched, once this process is complete alumni & faculty/staff will be referred to as mentors. Students who complete the registration process are matched with their two mentors, students will now be referred to as mentees. Matching is conducted by mentors and mentees undertaking a survey on the LionLink platform, program users will then be matched based on suitability.

Alumni Mentor:

Being a mentor can be a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact on others while also growing personally and professionally. You can share your expertise, develop your skills, expand your professional network, and contribute to building a supportive community.

  • Share personal experiences, challenges and successes at Penn State.
  • Provide insights on college life, course selection and extracurricular activities.
  • Help build a professional network and offer guidance on career exploration and job opportunities.
  • Offer motivation, support and encouragement throughout the first year.

To become a mentor with FastStart, please follow the steps below:

  1. If you already have a LionLink account: Please follow this link: FastStart 2023-2024 Registration to access the FastStart Landing page. From there, you will be able to complete your matching survey.
  2. If you do not have a LionLink account: Please follow this link: FastStart 2023-2024 Registration to create your LionLink profile. Once your profile is complete, you will be directed to the FastStart Landing page to complete your matching survey.

If you have any questions about FastStart now, please contact Marc Tuffy at mvt5750@psu.edu.

Faculty/Staff Mentor:

Being a mentor can be a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact on others while also growing personally and professionally. You can share your expertise, develop your skills, expand your professional network, and contribute to building a supportive community.

  • Provide academic guidance, course selection and understanding of university resources and policies.
  • Encourage awareness of support services on campus.
  • Assist in setting academic and personal goals and developing effective study habits.
  • Help with time management, organization and balancing responsibilities.

To become a mentor with FastStart, please follow the steps below:

  1. If you already have a LionLink account: Please follow this link: FastStart 2023-2024 Registration to access the FastStart Landing page. From there, you will be able to complete your matching survey.
  2. If you do not have a LionLink account: Please follow this link: FastStart 2023-2024 Registration to create your LionLink profile. Once your profile is complete, you will be directed to the FastStart Landing page to complete your matching survey.

If you have any questions about FastStart now, please contact Marc Tuffy at mvt5750@psu.edu.

Mentee:

FastStart can provide a comprehensive and well-rounded experience for first-year college students. It offers academic guidance, career advice, personal development opportunities and a supportive network to empower students to navigate the challenges of college life and thrive academically and personally.

Mentors can offer insights on navigating college, choosing courses, managing time effectively, and overcoming common challenges. They also provide networking opportunities, real-world perspectives, and academic and career guidance.

Mentee registration will open in July 2023.

If you have any questions about FastStart now, please contact Marc Tuffy at mvt5750@psu.edu.