Mentor program continues to be
a huge success with students

CBA students matched with business professionals

International business major Matthew Crabtree has been working and saving every penny he’s earned since the age of 11 in order to put himself through college. With the help of the College of Business Administration’s Mentoring Program, he feels confident he’ll be able to do more than graduate debt-free.

“I want to be a success in life, so right now I’m like a sponge, trying to soak up whatever I can,” Crabtree said.

CBA’s Mentoring Program is designed to match students with business professionals who give them career advice, résumé pointers, and a day of job shadowing. Crabtree paired up with Steve Jesnek, ’81, director of dealer development at Stiles Machinery in Grand Rapids.

Alumnus enjoys giving back
and staying in touch

Jesnek found the concept of the program intriguing when he first heard about it. Since then he has mentored six students.
“I had a great experience as a student at CMU, and I feel a program like this would have further enhanced my education,” Jesnek said. “I became a mentor because it’s important to give back. I enjoy the kids, and it gives me a chance to hear what they’re thinking these days.”

Jesnek tries to teach the students he mentors things they can’t learn in the classroom – networking, interpersonal communication, negotiation skills, and an awareness of personal brand.

“I feel a social education is just as important as academics,” Jesnek said.

For their initial conversation, Jesnek and Crabtree sat down at a coffee shop and discussed goals, professional interests, expectations, and, in general, got to know each other.

“He gave me good advice about communication, being empathetic, and carrying myself like a professional,” Crabtree said. “I realized what my career will be like and discovered a lot about myself. I’m going to be the first person in my family to graduate from a major college. This program has helped me see the whole picture.”

Mentor MaryAnn Rivers, center, Valassis vice president of sales, marketing, and merchandising, offers professional advice to CBA students Jean Butzier, left, and Daniel Birkmire, right.

CBA student Matthew Crabtree, left, gains valuable insight, knowledge, and practical advice about his future career from mentor Steve Jesnek, right, Stiles Machinery director of dealer development.