‘Circles of Success’ empower students and alumni
Midway through their first mentorship meeting, Sidi Ndiaye ’25 and Lindsay Ayers (BBA ’15) were both surprised at what they heard.
“Our first meeting via Zoom was unexpectedly impactful. Hearing Lindsay share her similar journey — starting with an interest in medicine, but shifting to the healthcare business side while longing to find that balance — motivated me to fully embrace the experience,” said Sidi, a fourth year psychology student.
“During our first meeting, I shared my experiences and insights from the health care industry. One student said, ‘Wow, that’s exactly the type of information I need to hear, I didn’t even know I needed to hear that!’” said Lindsay. “Moments like these remind me that the lessons I’m still learning can set someone up for success before they even step into the field.”
Sidi and Lindsay are both participants in the UGA Mentor Program’s inaugural Circle of Success, with Lindsay serving as a mentor to Sidi, one of three mentees in the circle. Their relationship has blossomed through the program, leading to personal and professional growth for both as they explore their careers.
Sidi and Lindsay meet via Zoom. (Photo: Submitted)
Circles of Success are a new, additional mentorship approach within the UGA Mentor Program. Unlike traditional one-on-one mentoring, this approach enables students to join a group led by a matched mentor. This model fosters collaborative learning and networking, connecting individuals like Sidi to peers and professionals who share similar interests and goals.
Currently, there are 18 active circles supporting 75 students, with additional mentors ready to start new circles in January.
“Group mentoring allows students to discover questions they didn’t know they needed to ask and gain insights they might not have considered alone,” said Lindsay. “In a less intimidating environment, they can learn alongside peers, realizing they’re not alone in their uncertainties.”
“Even during my time at UGA, I’ve had a couple of mentors, but a program like this is incredibly valuable, as the individual expertise of these professionals creates a great opportunity to maximize your potential,” said Sidi.
The UGA Mentor Program is a digital platform that facilitates mentoring relationships between students and UGA mentors — faculty, staff, and alumni. The program’s vision is for every UGA student to have a mentor before graduating, so they are focused on meeting students where they are, fostering inclusivity, and making mentorship an integral part of the student experience. Mentors participate as volunteers, driven by a genuine desire to give back.
“She’s only here to help, and when you have that support in your life, why not use it?” said Sidi.
“Mentors are not here out of obligation; they choose to be here because they genuinely want to help. Having once been in your shoes, they are excited to see you grow and succeed,” said Lindsay.
