College Relations

HRACO's College Relations Community

Are you an aspiring HR professional currently enrolled in a degree program? Take your career to the next level by becoming a student member of HRACO.

HRACO’s College Relations community is dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and the world of Human Resources. We provide a platform for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in HR to connect with experienced professionals, gain valuable insights, and build meaningful relationships.

As a student or young professional interested in the field of HR, joining our College Relations community opens up a world of opportunities. Whether you’re an undergraduate student, a graduate student, or a young professional, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Joining HRACO as a student member is easy. Simply submit your application along with documentation verifying your enrollment in an accredited college or trade program. Student membership is available for up to 4 years or until graduation, whichever occurs first.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to become part of a vibrant community dedicated to supporting your HR journey. Student dues are only $35, providing you with incredible value for your investment in your future.

We look forward to welcoming you and supporting you in your professional growth.

As a student member, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights that will help you excel in your HR journey. Here's what you can expect:

Mentorship Program

HRACO's mentorship program pairs students with HRACO mentors who are seasoned professionals in the HR industry. Through one-on-one guidance, you'll receive personalized advice, career insights, and practical knowledge that will accelerate your professional growth.

Networking Opportunities

Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for HR. Attend HRACO events, luncheons, and networking sessions to expand your professional network, gain exposure to industry leaders, and build relationships that will benefit your career.

Exclusive Benefits

Enjoy member-exclusive benefits designed specifically for students. Access valuable resources, participate in educational events, and stay updated on the latest HR trends and practices.

Collaboration and Learning

Engage in collaborative projects and discussions with fellow HR students and professionals. Participate in workshops, roundtable discussions, and interactive sessions that delve into critical HR topics, helping you develop a deeper understanding of the field.

Professional Development

Take advantage of workshops and training sessions designed to enhance your skills and competencies as an HR professional. From resume building and interview preparation to leadership development, our community is committed to supporting your professional growth.

Industry Connections

HRACO has ties with local collegiate HR associations, giving you the opportunity to connect with peers from other educational institutions. Share ideas, learn from each other's experiences, and broaden your perspective on HR practices across Central Ohio.

HRACO's Mentoring Program

Since 2003, HRACO’s College Relations community has been connecting Central Ohio college students with experienced HRACO members through our highly successful College Relations mentorship program.

Designed specifically for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a career in Human Resources, our program offers invaluable insights and guidance beyond the confines of academia.

As a mentor or mentee in HRACO’s College Relations Mentorship Program, you can expect a transformative experience that will shape your journey in the field of Human Resources. Our program is designed to foster meaningful connections, provide guidance, and empower both mentors and mentees to reach their full potential.

HRACO Mentors

HRACO Mentees

Curious to Learn More About Our Mentorship Program?

HRACO takes pride in supporting local collegiate Human Resources Associations (HRA), undergraduate and graduate students studying HR, and those interested in pursuing a career in this dynamic field. Our mission is to serve as a reliable resource and point of contact for Central Ohio students, offering invaluable opportunities to enhance their professional development.

Applications are currently closed.

Check back for updates on the 2023 mentorship program.

Through our Mentorship Program, we facilitate the connection between HRACO mentors and highly motivated HR students. These students are seeking mentors from our esteemed community who can guide them on their path to success. We encourage all HRACO members to consider becoming mentors and contribute to the growth of these aspiring professionals.

To address any questions or concerns, we have provided a comprehensive FAQ section below that outlines the expectations of both mentors and student protégés. Each mentorship relationship is unique and is established based on the specific needs and goals of the participants. Once the matching process is complete, the student protégé will be instructed to reach out to their assigned HRACO mentor, initiating a collaborative process to develop a mutually agreed-upon plan.

Mentorship FAQ

When does the Mentoring Program start and end for the year?

The Mentorship Program typically commences in early to mid-October and concludes in late April each year. This timeframe allows for an extended period of engagement and meaningful interaction between mentors and student protégés.

How can I participate as a mentor in the Mentorship Program?

As an HRACO member, you have the opportunity to volunteer as a mentor in the Mentorship Program. To participate, you should meet the following criteria:

1. Active HRACO Membership: You must be a current member of HRACO in good standing.

2. Experience in Human Resources: You should have professional experience in the field of Human Resources, demonstrating a strong understanding of HR practices and principles.

3. Commitment to Mentoring: You should be dedicated to supporting and guiding emerging HR professionals in their career development.

4. Availability and Time Commitment: It is important to have the availability to engage in regular communication and activities with your assigned student protégé throughout the duration of the program.

If you meet these criteria and are interested in becoming a mentor, please contact HRACO’s College Relations community for further information on how to get involved. Your participation as a mentor will not only contribute to the growth and development of the next generation of HR professionals but also provide you with a rewarding opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise in the field.

How can I participate as a mentee in the Mentorship Program?

The Mentorship Program is open to college students who are pursuing either an undergraduate or graduate degree with a focus in Human Resources. Both the student protégé (emerging HR professional) and the mentor must be in good standing with HRACO to participate in the program. This ensures that participants are actively engaged in the HRACO community and adhere to the organization’s standards and guidelines.

How do students learn about the Mentorship Program? Are universities involved?

Students can learn about HRACO’s Mentorship Program through various channels, including:

1. HRACO Communication: HRACO promotes the Mentorship Program through its social media platforms, newsletters, and email blasts. These communications provide updates and information about the program, including how students can participate.

2. HRACO Luncheons: Students who attend HRACO luncheons have the opportunity to learn about the Mentorship Program through presentations, announcements, and networking with HRACO members.

3. University Partnerships: HRACO’s College Relations committee collaborates with local universities’ career services departments and HR professors to raise awareness about the program among students. These partnerships help ensure that students are informed about the Mentorship Program and have the opportunity to participate.

Currently, HRACO has established relationships with the following universities:

– The Ohio State University
– Franklin University
– Otterbein University
– Ohio Dominican University
– Ohio University
– Indiana Wesleyan University

We are always open to suggestions on additional ways to connect with students and universities. If you have any recommendations or would like to propose a partnership, please reach out to HRACO’s College Relations community. We value your input and are committed to expanding our reach to support students interested in pursuing a career in Human Resources.

Can non-students participate in the Mentorship Program?

For the current year’s program, we are exclusively accepting students to be mentored. However, we are actively exploring options for expanding the program to include non-students in the future. We recognize the value of connecting professionals with experienced HR mentors and are committed to creating opportunities for career development beyond the student population.

In the meantime, we encourage non-students to take advantage of the networking opportunities available at HRACO’s monthly meetings. These meetings provide a platform for connecting with seasoned HR professionals, exchanging insights, and expanding professional networks. Stay updated on our upcoming meetings and events to engage with the HR community and benefit from their expertise.

We appreciate your interest and support for HRACO’s Mentorship Program and look forward to the potential expansion to include non-students in the near future.

How often are mentor/student meetings scheduled?

We recommend that all mentor/student pairs aim to meet for at least two-hour sessions per month, totaling a minimum of 12 hours throughout the program’s duration. However, we understand that schedules can vary, and meeting frequency can be adjusted based on the availability and preferences of both mentors and students. Flexibility is key to ensure a successful mentoring relationship that accommodates individual schedules and commitments.

Mentors and students are encouraged to establish a meeting cadence that works best for them, considering their respective schedules and availability. It’s important to maintain regular communication and establish a consistent meeting rhythm to maximize the benefits of the mentorship experience.

We believe in the value of ongoing mentorship and the impact it can have on professional development. The specific meeting arrangements can be determined collaboratively between mentors and students to ensure a mutually beneficial and productive mentoring relationship.

What are the benefits of student membership in HRACO?

As a student member of HRACO, you gain access to a range of valuable benefits and opportunities to support your professional development in the field of Human Resources. Here are some key benefits of student membership:

1. Monthly Luncheon: Attend our monthly luncheon at a discounted student rate. This event provides a platform to network with industry professionals, hear from guest speakers, and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in Human Resources.

2. Workshops and Conferences: Enjoy discounted rates for workshops and conferences offered throughout the year. These events cover a variety of HR topics and provide valuable learning experiences to enhance your knowledge and skills in the field.

3. Happy Hours and Member Appreciation Events: Participate in regular Happy Hour networking events and member appreciation events organized by HRACO. These gatherings offer opportunities to connect with fellow members, build relationships, and expand your professional network.

4. Leadership Development: Engage in leadership development opportunities by volunteering with a HRACO community. By getting involved and contributing your skills, you can enhance your leadership abilities, gain practical experience, and make a positive impact within the HRACO community.

5. Resources and Support: Access a wealth of resources, including industry updates, job opportunities, and educational materials, designed to support your career growth and keep you informed about the latest developments in the HR field.

By becoming a student member of HRACO, you join a vibrant community of HR professionals, gain valuable industry insights, and develop crucial skills to advance your career. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to thrive in the field of Human Resources.

What if I have additional questions about the mentorship program?

We understand that you may have further questions or need more information about the mentorship program. We are here to assist you every step of the way. If you have any inquiries or would like clarification on any aspect of the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can contact the VP of College Relations. They will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about participating in the program.

We value your interest in the mentorship program and want to ensure that you have all the necessary details to make the most of this valuable opportunity. Please feel free to contact us at your convenience, and we will be glad to assist you.