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THE HERD

Tap into a JUMBO network

Access the endless possibilities of the Jumbo network worldwide! Tufts’ new online career community, The Herd, connects School of Arts and Sciences, and School of Engineering alums and students for conversations, networking, mentoring, job shadowing, and other professional development activities.

Networking & Mentoring

As an alum, you can choose when and how you want to support students and fellow Jumbos, whether it’s via email, virtual meetings, phone call, in-person, through a job shadow, or any other avenue. You can also adjust your availability on an ongoing basis to suit your preferences and busy lifestyle. Joining The Herd is a rewarding way to give back—and an exciting opportunity to help mentor the next generation of Jumbos. 

You can also network or connect with other seasoned alums. Whether you are looking for a career transition or for leadership development, The Herd is a perfect place for you to tap into the network of stellar alums that can help you in your journey.

Join The Herd
The Herd logo

FAQs for alums

  • Who is eligible to join The Herd?

    Alums from the undergraduate and graduate programs in the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts can join to both seek and offer advice and mentoring to other alums and students. Faculty and staff can also join to offer advice and act as mentors.

    Undergraduate students and graduate students from the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts can join to seek career networking and mentoring from alums, faculty, and staff.

     

  • Can I register to network with other alums only?

    Yes, you can join as a user who only interacts with other alums for networking and/or mentoring. First, you’ll complete your profile. Signing up with LinkedIn will automatically fill in some of your info. Next, you'll update your settings to indicate who can see your profile, whom you prefer to interact with, and how you prefer to receive notifications (and how often).

  • Why should I join The Herd as an alum?

    In The Herd, you’ll gain valuable insight into the ever-changing landscape of professional development in your industry and tap into the fresh minds and perspectives of those poised to become tomorrow’s leaders. Network with fellow alums and open doors you never thought possible. Learn something new from your mentee—or find the next hire for your team! Mentoring through The Herd is an excellent way to build coaching and leadership skills—and best of all, you’ll discover new purpose as you help Tufts students navigate the next steps in their careers, lending them your professional expertise and wisdom along the way. 

    There are so many ways to get involved with The Herd. Picture yourself …  

    • Connecting with a variety of professional networks and identity-based communities of alums and students. 
    • Hosting a student for a short-term virtual project or internship through our enriching Jumbos4Jumbos program. 
    • Participating in a mentoring program designed for alums and students who identify as first generation and/or low income.  
    • Meeting and learning from fellow alums working in your current or desired field.  
    • Guiding students through their career pursuits in whatever unique way you choose!
  • What are the expectations in the mentoring relationship?

    The student/alum mentee is expected to make first contact with you, and it's up to you and your mentee to decide how involved you want the mentoring experience to be. Your engagement could be a one-time conversation, or you may wish to continue for a longer period of time. It is important that both you and your mentee set limits surrounding the mentoring relationship, e.g., methods of communication (email, phone, in person) and how often communication will occur.

    Alum mentors DO:

    • Respond promptly to requests from students and alums to connect and are clear about what they’re willing to do (including time they have available and the kind of support they’re able to give).
    • Actively listen and help mentees arrive at conclusions by themselves.
    • Share industry knowledge and expertise and coach mentees on particular skills/competencies.
    • Share their own stories while respecting the differences between mentees’ dreams and mentors’ reality.

    Alum mentors DO NOT:

    • Have all the answers for their mentee.
    • Initiate all contact with their mentee.
    • Need to provide jobs or internships for the mentee. 
    • Try to offer support beyond the bounds of the mentoring relationship (e.g., as a financial advisor or professional counselor).

    Two important notes: 

    1. If, at any point, mentors no longer want to, or are unable to, participate in the program, they will notify all mentees about their situation as soon as possible.
    2. The Herd strives to maintain the utmost standard of professionalism in mentor-mentee relationships. If participants are ever concerned by the unprofessional behavior of a mentor or mentee, they should inform Tufts University Career Center staff at theherd@tufts.edu immediately.