Graduation, excitement, hats in the air, college, job … life. When things get so busy, why should you make the effort to stay connected to your high school, middle school or even primary colleagues and teachers?
Staying connected to your school as an alumnus is more than just nostalgia; it offers lifelong benefits for both graduates and institutions. Alumni networks provide valuable professional connections, opening doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship. By remaining engaged, alumni can give back through mentorship, donations, or guest lectures, enriching the experience of current students and enhancing the school’s reputation.
Schools, in turn, play a crucial role by fostering these relationships through active alumni associations, hosting events, offering continuing education, and creating platforms for networking. Cultivating meaningful alumni relationships not only strengthens community ties but also contributes to the success of both the graduates and the institution over time.
Here are some tips for both alumni and schools.
Alumni increase their networking opportunities.
Staying connected provides access to a strong professional network of fellow alumni, professors, and students, which can open doors to career opportunities and collaborations.
Schools, tap into this amazing opportunity that your alumni community presents by organising events where former students engage with current ones to learn from each other. These can be in person, if alumni are local, or via digital platforms.
Alumni give back.
They can contribute to the growth and success of their school by mentoring students, sharing expertise, or supporting scholarships and other initiatives.
Schools, giving back is not always money. It is time, expertise, ideas, partnerships and engagement. Sometimes these are more valuable. Don’t narrow the possibilities by solely focusing on funds.
Alumni continue to learn.
Schools often offer lifelong learning opportunities such as workshops, seminars, and online courses that alumni can benefit from to stay current in their field.
Schools, open your doors to continuous learning for your alumni community. You are learning communities that continually grow and your alumni would be happy to benefit from that.
Alumni drive community engagement.
Remaining involved helps foster a sense of belonging, allowing alumni to participate in social, cultural, and professional events that strengthen bonds with their alma mater.
Schools, remain in touch with your alumni through all the platforms at your fingertips today. This is how you can engage in community action alongside alumni who may now be driving forces in other realms. Or engage them in activities you are doing.
Alumni contribute to their school legacy and reputation which in turn boosts the value of their own degree and legacy.
Schools, this is it! Whenever you are looking to speak to prospective students, parents or staff, there is nothing more interesting than presenting true stories of achievement from your alumni. Here are some from CIS, in our September Alumni Newsletter.
