First year affinity groups provide invaluable professional development and guidance to first-year students. First Year Mentors are uniquely equipped to guide students on the courses, internships, and skills that will be most beneficial to their careers and to provide insights on launching careers in public policy. They help students clarify their career interests, develop professional  skills, and build connections and community at Harris and beyond.

Connecting first-years to other students with similar interests also allows the students to bounce ideas off one another and to learn more about their peers’ experiences and perspectives. The insight gained from these connections can be valuable to first-years as they consider their path at Harris and beyond. Some affinity group connections also lead to collaborations and relationships outside the scope of the Mentor Program, such as teaming up for policy competitions.