Graduate Mentorship Opportunities Start to Finish Mentorship Program Builds Lifelong Wildcat Connections A mentorship initiative from the Center for Graduate and Professional Studies and Graduate Student Congress helps students connect, grow, and succeed at the University of Kentucky.

At the University of Kentucky, mentorship is more than a support system. It is a pathway to academic success, professional growth, and lifelong connections. The Start to Finish (STF) Mentorship Program, offered through the Center for Graduate and Professional Studies (CGPS) and the Graduate Student Congress (GSC), is helping students strengthen their personal and professional networks while building a stronger Wildcat community. To explore the full story, read the original UKNow article by Ryan Girves: Start to Finish Mentorship Program builds lifelong Wildcat connections

Now hosted on the Wildcat Network, Start to Finish connects graduate and professional students with mentors who can guide their academic and career journeys, while also providing opportunities for them to serve as mentors to undergraduate students. This dual structure creates a supportive, multi-layered mentorship environment that empowers students at every stage of their educational experience.

The program considers a variety of factors, such as academic discipline, career goals, personal interests, and individual preferences, to ensure that each match is meaningful and impactful. By connecting students with mentors who align with their aspirations, Start to Finish helps them gain insight into future career paths, expand their networks, and develop essential skills that will serve them long after graduation.

Mentorship through Start to Finish is not only about guidance but also about growth. Participants benefit from structured support, professional development opportunities, and regular check-ins that encourage them to set and achieve their goals. Many graduate students report that being part of Start to Finish has helped them feel more connected to the university community, improved their confidence, and clarified their academic and career direction.

Whether you are an undergraduate student looking for direction, a graduate student seeking mentorship, or a faculty member eager to share your expertise, the Start to Finish program offers a valuable opportunity to engage in meaningful relationships that can shape your future.

To learn more about how to get involved or to register for the program, visit the Center for Graduate and Professional Studies: Start to Finish Program Information