WiSE Mentorship: A Lasting Impact—and an Invitation to Give Back

May 2026

 

WiSE ALUMNAE MENTORSHIP

 


From its earliest days, WiSE was built on a powerful vision: creating access to a broad network of supportive women scientists and engineers.


Today, that vision lives on through a dynamic mentorship program that connects students with alumnae and professionals, forming relationships that extend far beyond campus.


Over time, WiSE mentorship has grown into a robust ecosystem—one that supports students during their time at Iowa State while creating lasting personal and professional impact well into their careers as alumnae.


For students, these connections are often transformative. Through regular conversations, mentors offer guidance on internships, networking, career paths, and navigating the workplace.


These relationships go beyond advice—they become enduring support systems that help students see new possibilities for themselves and their futures.


The power of mentorship is perhaps best captured in the lasting confidence and connection students gain.




WHAT

STUDENTS

HAVE TO SAY ...

“I gained a relationship that will go beyond just this program… It’s nice to know that she is rooting for me and is there to support me should I ever need it in the future.”

“My mentor gave me so much advice on a variety of topics that has really helped me,”


“She taught me that it’s okay to reach out—and that I am more capable than I realize.”


 

GET INVOLVED - BECOME A WiSE MENTOR!

 

"When women support women in STEM, MAGIC happens!"

The WiSE mentorship program is more than a professional development initiative—it is a cycle of support that grows stronger with every generation. Each alumna who chooses to participate helps open doors, build confidence, and expand opportunities for students who follow. Your experiences—whether from your first job, career pivots, or leadership journey—can have a meaningful and lasting impact on a student navigating similar questions.

By becoming a mentor, you can:

  • Guide students as they explore their futures
  • Help build their confidence and professional skills
  • Share insight that only lived experience can provide
  • Stay connected to WiSE and the ISU community


Apply to be a MENTOR by July 31st.

You can also deepen your impact by serving on the mentorship steering committee and helping guide the program’s future.



Apply to join the MENTORSHIP STEERING COMMITTEE by June 14th.

 
 

"Mentorship for me is about building a support team that challenges you to grow and builds you up. Mentors have supported and pushed me to be where I am in life, and I want to share that with others."


— WiSE Alumnae, Hanna Stec



WHAT ALUMNAE HAVE TO SAY ...



Just as meaningful is the impact on mentors. Alumnae describe the experience as both energizing and fulfilling. One mentor shared, “It’s an opportunity to give back and also learn from a younger person,” reflecting the two-way nature of the relationship. 


Others emphasize the connection back to their own WiSE experience:


“I love that it connects me back to ISU, my major program, and WiSE. It gives me an easy way to give back and encourage other talented women.” 


Mentors speak to the personal growth they experience. As one alumna noted:


“I learned that my experiences are valuable to other people… I felt like I made a difference.” 




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Your Role in the WiSE Legacy

WiSE mentorship is not just about reflecting on your time at Iowa State—it’s about continuing its impact. Every conversation, every piece of guidance, and every connection contributes to a legacy that supports and uplifts the next generation of women in STEM.

Your journey with WiSE didn’t end at graduation—it continues through the students you inspire!

Apply to be a MENTOR by July 31st.

WiSE Alumnae & Friends Newsletter


Send this link to your WiSE friends and encourage them to sign up for our Alumnae & Friends Newsletter.


Remember to Share Your WiSE Memories


You are a vital part of our journey!

Share your WiSE memories and photos to help us honor 40 years of inspiring youth, empowering ISU students, and strengthening the STEM workforce.

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Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011.

Tel. 515-294-7612; email eooffice@iastate.edu.

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