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University of Michigan School of Information

Volunteer and engagement opportunities

A photo collage: A panel of people speaking to a room full of students; Two people standing next to a banner that says "Alumni" with a UMSI logo at the top; a group of people standing outside an academic building waving at the camera; a group of people listening to the woman in the middle speak.

Inspire the next generation of information leaders

For what’s next, University of Michigan School of Information students look to you: alumni and industry leaders who have built purposeful careers at the intersection of people, information and technology. 

Ways to engage 

By offering your time — whether an hour-long conversation or a semester-long collaboration — you help students discover new career possibilities and gain hands-on experience that sets them apart. Most engagement opportunities are open to alumni and partners anywhere in the world. 

Long-term opportunities 

Host a student project
Receive consultation and deliverables from students tackling real-world challenges in client-based courses and programs like Alternative Spring Break. Your organization will gain solutions at no cost, while providing a transformative learning experience. Email the Engaged Learning Office ([email protected]) with questions.

Recruit UMSI students
Bring top talent to your organization. UMSI students are problem-solvers with strong technical skills and a human-centered mindset. Promote your organization by recruiting at the UMSI Career Fair, participating in design jams or speaking on industry panels. Email the Career Development Office ([email protected]) with questions.

Mentor UMSI students
Provide six months of formal mentorship to a student through UMSI Mentor Match, which prioritizes matching first-generation, low-income and transfer students. Through regular one-on-one meetings, you’ll support your mentee in developing career skills and building their professional network. Email the Career Development Office ([email protected]) with questions.

Short-term opportunities 

Connect for a career chat
Make an impact on a student’s career path in thirty minutes. Sign up for a one-on-one virtual meeting with a current student through Alumni Career Connections, and offer career advice, a portfolio review or a mock interview. Sign up today!

Participate in educational outreach
Inspire future Wolverines by participating in a K-20 outreach event or connecting with prospective transfer students. By sharing your own journey, you can increase students’ awareness of possibilities in the field of information science. Email K-20 educational outreach program manager Sandra Lopez ([email protected]) with questions.

Connect with prospective students
Share your UMSI experience with prospective students. Contact the Office of Academic and Student Affairs ([email protected]) for more information or to express interest.

Attend UMSI events

A group of people standing outside together and laughing. The person in the middle is wearing a U-M hat.

Reconnect with faculty, students and alumni while staying close to the latest topics in the information field. Explore the UMSI alumni events calendar to find upcoming opportunities to connect, both virtually and in person. Alumni are also invited to take part in these signature events:

  • UMSI InfoSpeaks is a live-streamed talk series, featuring UMSI and U-M experts, that provides a means for alumni and external audiences to engage with leading-edge information topics. View past talks here.
  • The UMSI Alumni Homecoming Celebration in October is an annual event that brings together alumni, students, faculty and friends to celebrate their shared connection to the school. Network, reconnect with classmates and faculty, and learn about the latest happenings at UMSI.
  • Each November, UMSI participates in the university-wide First-Generation Celebration Week, which recognizes first-gen college students, alumni, faculty and staff. The week culminates in a community dinner, which all UMSI alumni, students, faculty and staff are invited to attend.
  • The UMSI Commencement Reception in May is a celebratory event to honor graduating students and their accomplishments. Held in conjunction with UMSI’s commencement ceremony, the reception features congratulatory remarks and light refreshments. It is open to graduates and their families, as well as all UMSI alumni, faculty and staff. 

Connect with alumni in your area

Contact Alumni Relations to express interest in these opportunities:

  • Speak at a UMSI event or an alumni event in your area
  • Host an alumni reception in your area

Volunteer definition and expectations