Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business is introducing a graduate mentoring program this spring to help MBA and master’s students maximize their graduate program experience, refine their professional goals and build relationships with seasoned industry professionals.

The innovative six-month program is the college’s latest initiative to help students gain experience and knowledge beyond the classroom. The matching process for mentors and mentees includes an algorithm that examines factors such as industry, years of experience, career goals and expected outcomes.

“We are employing the latest technologies to ensure our new graduate mentoring program is another way in which we deliver on our vision that ‘no one gets closer to business than Robinson,’” said Richard Phillips, dean of the college.

The pilot phase of the program will start in March. Students will be able to apply in subsequent phases, with 100 or more students being a part of the program. Robinson is recruiting mentors.

“Mentors can provide support, validation and wisdom,” said Lisa Conley, associate director of graduate mentoring. “This type of personalized guidance will play a valuable role in the growth of our students.”

The program is sponsored by Georgia’s Own Credit Union and made possible by Robinson’s Mentoring Advisory Board.