Our office engages alumni in several ways to help support Harvard College students in their exploration of public interest work and to engage is public interest work more broadly. Whether it's mentoring, serving as a guest speaker, or helping to facilitate career connections, alumni support strengthens Harvard College's commitment to public service.
Become an Alumni Mentor
Every student who is selected for a Mindich Service Fellowship is matched with an alumni mentor for the duration of their summer intenrship. The mentorship componenet is designed to improve the fellow's summer experience, while allowing the mentor to learn about Harvard students interested in entering the public interest sector. Mentors volunteer for 10 weeks during the summer, providing encouragement or support for their summer Intern. We ask that alumni interested in mentoring as part of this program sign up on Firsthand Advisers, a platform utilized by our Mignone Center for Career Success.
Time commitment: 2 - 3 hours per month from June to August
Attend Public Interested
Public Interested is a collaborative event coordinated by the Phillips Brooks House Center for Public Service & Engaged Scholarship. This day-long conference is designed to allow students to explore varied public interest careers and network with alumni in those fields. Alumni and students have the opportunity to hear from inspiring speakers, interact with other alumni, participate in engaging activities, and meet peers who share a passion for public service.
Attend or Plan a Nonprofit Board Fair
In partnership with the Harvard Alumni Association, the Center for Public Service and Engaged Scholarship works with Harvard Clubs around the country to sponsor Non-Profit Board Recruitment Fairs. These fairs connect Harvard alumni with local organizations seeking board members. Previous fairs have been held in Boston, New York City, Seattle, and Washington DC. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, fairs were canceled, but our office looks forward to connecting with alumni and partner organizations in Spring 2024.