Spartan Connections
Starting college is an exciting time, but it can also bring questions, challenges, and unfamiliar experiences. At Aurora University, students are surrounded by an ecosystem of support that includes faculty, staff, advisors, coaches, and campus resources.
Spartan Connections is a mentoring program that provides first-year students with a specific point of connection within that larger network. Whether you are looking for academic encouragement, career guidance, campus involvement, help navigating college life, or simply another trusted contact, Spartan Connections is designed to help you find support that fits your needs.
What is Spartan Connections?
Spartan Connections helps first-year students build meaningful relationships with faculty and staff mentors across campus. Mentors are dedicated supporters who are ready to answer questions, share advice, and help you feel at home at AU. By participating in Spartan Connections, you can:
- Build a stronger sense of connection and belonging at AU.
- Have a trusted support person on campus.
- Explore academic, personal, and career goals.
- Learn about campus resources, opportunities, and involvement.
- Gain confidence navigating your first year of college.
How does Spartan Connections work?
You can opt in to Spartan Connections anytime during your freshman year at AU. After joining, a member of the Spartan Connections team will reach out to schedule a brief Zoom conversation to learn more about your goals, interests, and what you may be looking for in a mentor.
You will also have the opportunity to review faculty and staff mentor bios to learn more about their backgrounds, experiences, interests, and mentoring styles. Using this information, the Spartan Connections team will help facilitate thoughtful mentor matches designed to support your individual goals and interests.
What can I expect as a Spartan Connections mentee?
As a mentee, you can expect:
- Personalized support from a faculty or staff mentor.
- Flexible check-ins and communication throughout the year.
- Encouragement and guidance during your transition to college.
- Help identifying opportunities, resources, and campus involvement.
- A connection with someone who cares about your success.
Every mentoring relationship may look a little different depending on each student’s goals and preferences, but the focus remains the same: helping you feel supported, connected, and confident during your first year at AU.
Why does Spartan Connections matter?
Students who experience a strong sense of belonging are more likely to stay engaged, persist through challenges, and thrive academically, socially, and personally. Spartan Connections helps students build meaningful relationships and deepen their connection to the AU community.
Spartan Connections is more than a program; it’s a reminder that you do not have to navigate college alone. At Aurora University, we are committed to creating a campus community where every student feels supported, connected, and valued.