Ready for the World and Workforce
In 2019 CDI launched our Career Mentoring Initiative to help Scholars in college and beyond focus on career coaching and access workforce opportunities through experiential learning and connections with accomplished professionals in their chosen fields. The initiative helps introduce students to eight core competencies employers are seeking in
The initiative has proven mutually beneficial to Scholars like Darwin and his mentor, Jobani, both of whom have gained from their participation.
Darwin (Scholar)
School: American University
Expected Graduation: May 2020
Major: Finance
1. What career are you interested in pursuing and why?
I’m interested in pursuing a career in investment banking or management consulting. I would like to pursue investment banking because I believe there is a lot of potential for bankers in developing regions such as South America, West Africa, and Asia. My interest in management consulting comes because I think I would make a great consultant, as I’m a person who likes to solve problems on a case-by-case basis and could help bring a company new sources of revenue.
2. What sparked your interest in participating in CDI’s Mentorship Initiative?
The opportunity to have a mentor and learn from them. I think mentorship is a great way to learn from someone who has more experience than me and can show me what I can do better in my personal and professional life.
3. In what ways has your mentor, Jobani, helped you?
Jobani has helped me tremendously by giving me advice in applying for internships, providing me with a better resume format, and just being there for me if I have any questions about anything, including things unrelated to school.
4. What has been your favorite “mentorship” moment?
On our first meeting, we went to a really good taco spot that Jobani knew, and we just ended up talking about so many things from school, to soccer, to our entrepreneurial ventures. It was great.
5. What advice would you give other Scholars who are unsure about engaging with mentors?
To give it a try, sometimes we may feel like we have things under control and know everything, but the advice and experience of a mentor is priceless. This program is just great. Please try it, you won’t regret it.
Jobani (Mentor)
Occupation: Consulting, Risk and Financial Advisory
University of Maryland College Park (’19), B.S. Accounting Montgomery College, Associates in Business
1. What motivated you to get involved in CDI’s Career Mentoring Initiative as a mentor?
Mentoring is a beautiful thing that everyone should experience whether through mentoring or being a mentee. Sometimes we don’t realize how much impact and perspective we actually have to offer, even at a young age. I have been involved with mentoring since college and CDI’s mentoring initiative offered me an amazing opportunity to mentor and have an impact on someone’s life.
2. Describe your mentorship experience.
CDI did a great job of pairing us together. Darwin and I keep an open line of communication in an informal setting which has allowed us to maintain fluidity with the goals and game plan that we set to achieve. Darwin has been great. He’s very receptive, taking action on things we discuss together. He’s a grounded individual who is appreciative of the program. CDI fosters individuals who want to succeed and that enriches the mentoring experience. I’m excited for what’s to come.
3. How has the mentorship experience impacted you?
Mentoring has made me realize that labels (mentor and mentee) shouldn’t matter, there’s a lot to learn from everyone. I have learned a lot through the bonds that I have and I am still a part of. It’s a great way to discover a new perspective.
4. What has been your favorite “mentorship” moment?
When Darwin and I met for the first time, we went to Panera. Once there, we ended up deciding to get tacos close by and we had a great time. Overall, the whole mentorship has been a great experience on its own.
5. What advice would you give to other mentors who are mentoring CDI Scholars?
I think the most important thing is to start and continue building a friendship. Being transparent is also important because it allows for a genuine experience. Everyone is different and sometimes it can seem like you might not have much in common with someone, but finding common ground can take you a long way.
