Reimagining the Meiklejohn Fellows Program

Recommendations & Reflections

1. Implement a Tiered, Year-Specific Career Development Curriculum

• Why: Students across class years expressed differing needs—first-years want guidance on finding opportunities, juniors need intensive internship/job prep, and seniors are looking for post-grad transition support.
• How:
  • First Year: Intro to Amherst, self-assessment, exploring interests, and understanding the Meiklejohn Program
  • Sophomore Year: FGLI-friendly internship/research search, resume and cover letter writing, early exposure to networking
  • Junior Year: Internship/job search strategy, mock interviews, LinkedIn workshops, financial planning
  • Senior Year: Navigating post-grad transitions, budgeting for relocation, grad school applications

2. Establish a Cohort-Based Model Organized by Class Year

• Why: Students are interested in connecting with peers going through similar career stages. This could increase participation, accountability, and community.
• How: Create yearly cohort groups that attend workshops together, receive year-specific communications, and have opportunities to bond socially and professionally.

3. Launch a Student Advisory Board

• Why: 11 of 14 respondents expressed interest in serving, and students want more voice in shaping programming.
• How: Recruit 5–7 students annually with clear role expectations (event planning, curriculum input, communication with Loeb staff). Offer a flexible, low-lift model of participation (e.g., step-in/step-out meeting structure).

4. Revise and Relaunch a Peer Mentorship Program

• Why: There’s strong interest in mentorship, but past iterations felt superficial or unclear in purpose.
• How:
  • Move away from formal 1:1 pairings.
  • Encourage interest-based or major-aligned peer groups.
  • Host themed “meet-ups” like “Study Sesh Sundays” or “Career Craft Nights” to make mentorship more approachable and natural.
  • Offer optional training or planning resources to mentors.

5. Offer FGLI-Specific Programming with a Casual, Community-Driven Approach

• Why: Students want a balance between structure and approachability. Casual events can build trust and increase engagement for those previously disconnected.
• How: Host events like:
  • Internship Resource Shares (“Internship Parties”)
  • Panels with FGLI alumni
  • S’mores-style meet-ups with snacks, storytelling, and soft skill sharing
  • Open house mixers to demystify the program

6. Improve Program Communication and Onboarding

• Why: Several respondents were confused about their Meiklejohn status, benefits, and opportunities.
• How:
  • Develop a clear onboarding session for new members
  • Send monthly updates or digest emails with resources, opportunities, and student spotlights
  • Clarify eligibility and application process across all communication platforms