Engineering College and Alma Mater Connect

The involvement of alumni in supporting and providing contributions voluntarily to the engineering and management colleges is important for maintaining and expanding the development of a college.

JD College of Engineering and Management has started JD Alumni association. It has opened a new avenue for the growth, development and strong bonding with the institution. Hence, this is a potential for all alumni to contribute to the college in different ways and scale.

Role model and inspiration

Alumni are an effective role model and can be easily accepted by students. With the return of the alumni to support Engineering Colleges, they bring with them credibility and justification as part of a successful college. Experiences shared by the alumni with students whether in time management; financial management; development of self-discipline and character, or in career management serve as guidance and inspiration for students.

Career mentor

Competition in entering the workforce is becoming more intensive as a result of a higher number of graduates getting degree from colleges compared with a limited number of job opportunities. In the final year of their studies, students must identify seriously their career prospects. Therefore, alumni can be a reference for the faculty concerned in meeting the needs of students and graduates in obtaining work in selected fields.

Providing expertise

Besides that, the alumni can contribute by providing sharing their expertise in their occupation in developing new study programs at their respective college. Alumni can contribute as a guest lecturer, advisor in committees, industry experts and cooperative partners in projects with the College/university. This will improve the development of their alma mater.                                      

Opportunity to access professional development

When the alumni community is successful and obtains recognition from the corporate world, industry and the wider community. It can potentially create a stronger network as well as trust in the respective college. Also, they will assist younger alumni from the college/university to access opportunities in improving their careers and professionalism.

 

Conclusion

A good combination of the above-mentioned approach based on your institution’s vision will make your alumni feel part of their alma mater and motivate them to stay connected forever.

Alumni engagement should not be just about class reunions conducted once every year. If it has to be a long-lasting association based on trust and affection then the relationship must extend beyond seasonal events.

Simply spending time and money on engaging alumni through events will not serve any good. Colleges should come out with innovative ideas to bring alumni onboard. For achieving this, colleges are creating a culture of building a support system for its alumni network. This support system will then act as a propellant to fuel organic bond between the alumni and the college that will remain alive always.

About Author:

Ms. Vasundhara Malhotra is currently working as Training and Placement Officer at JD College of Engineering and Management, Nagpur. An Electronics Engineering Post Graduate, she has myriad interests encompassing Training, Placement, technology, gadgets, computers, business and entrepreneurship among others.