Start Your Penn State Journey with FastStart!
FastStart connects first-year Penn State students with two mentors: a Penn State alum and a Penn State faculty/staff member. These mentors will help students build confidence, community, and connections during their transition to college.
The FastStart mentoring program supports student success academically, personally, and professionally through meaningful mentorship and support.
The Penn State Alumni Association is one of the largest and most engaged in the country, and university faculty and staff are dedicated to student excellence. FastStart connects students to mentors who have been where they are, and can help students get where they want to go!
Why Join FastStart?
Mentees Receive:
- Guidance from experienced Penn Staters
- Support navigating college life
- Academic and career encouragement
- Access to alumni networking and alumni association eventss
- A built-in support system throughout first-year
Mentors Will:
- Make a meaningful impact on a student's Penn State experience
- Share their Penn State knowledge and experiences
- Support student success and belonging
- Build community across the Penn State network
How it Works
- Complete the registration form in LionLink
- Get matched based on shared interests and experiences
- Connect regularly throughout the academic year
Program Expectations
Participants are expected to:
- Communicate consistently (at least 1x per month)
- Attend events (minimum of 2)
- Engage actively in the mentoring relationship
Additional program details, resources, and expectations will be shared after registration.
If you have any questions, contact Jessica L. Dunlow, Associate Director for Affinity Engagement at jessica.dunlow@psu.edu
Apply Today!
Click the green "Join Program" button and complete the registration questions.
