ECE Plugged In Program
Experience in Professional Development

Alumni Mentorship
The Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Plugged In Program at Clemson University is aimed at connecting current ECE students with ECE alumni. More specifically, participating ECE alumni or strong ECE advocates mentor one to three ECE sophomore students who are interested in being a "mentee" in the program.
The ECE Plugged In Program mentors contact their mentee students throughout the academic year to help keep them motivated and excited about electrical and computer engineering, and we strive to match student’s interests with the mentor’s experience. The success of the ECE Plugged In Program depends on the mentor’s commitment to the program and our students.
Goals and Outcomes
The Plugged In alumni mentorship program is designed to be a transformative experience for Electrical and Computer Engineering students. By connecting students with experienced professionals, we aim to improve their academic journey and career prospects dramatically. Mentors commit to helping students navigate the complexities of engineering education, providing insights into diverse career opportunities, and supporting personal and professional development.
Through strategic mentorship, we focus on critical outcomes: increasing student retention, boosting motivation, and enhancing your overall educational experience. Mentors proactively engage with students throughout their sophomore year, offering guidance through multiple touchpoints, including email, video calls, phone conversations, and in-person meetings. They illuminate the expansive career landscape in Electrical and Computer Engineering, helping students understand the incredible potential of their chosen field.
Beyond academic advice, mentors are passionate about expanding professional horizons. They'll encourage you to explore transformative opportunities like internships, undergraduate research, co-op programs, and study abroad experiences. These supplemental experiences are not just resume builders – they're critical pathways to understanding real-world engineering challenges, developing professional networks, and discovering unique potential in the engineering ecosystem.
Program Involvement
Enrollment Period: Fall of each year for the following fall/spring term We are currently seeking mentors to begin the program in the upcoming academic year and accepting mentee sign-ups for sophomore engineering students entering the ECE department in the upcoming Fall semester . Mentor/Mentee notification begins in September, after the start of fall classes, and the length of the formal relationship is for one academic year.
Interest Applications
Students: Interested in becoming a mentee in the program?
At Clemson, you will have ample opportunities to speak with faculty and advisors. The ECE Plugged In Program provides additional opportunities to communicate with individuals who have been through an undergraduate engineering program and are currently in the industry. Alumni mentors commit to reaching out throughout the academic year and helping you navigate the ins and outs of engineering education, providing insights into career opportunities and personal development.
Student Sign-Up Mentee ManualAlumni: Interested in working with students as a mentor?
The ECE Plugged In program initiative is designed to connect enthusiastic sophomore students in the Electrical and Computer Engineering department with experienced professionals like you. Your guidance can inspire students to explore various career paths in ECE, stay motivated in their studies, and achieve academic success. As a mentor, you’ll play a crucial role in encouraging students, sharing industry insights, and enriching their educational journey.
Requirements for ECE Plugged In Mentors
- Graduate of Clemson University College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences (preferably with a degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering), or be a strong advocate for the ECE Department.
- Initiate communication with the student(s) at least three times during the sophomore year.
- Promote the benefits of an Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering degree.
- Share about your past academic experiences. Our purpose is to encourage and motivate the students to work hard and complete the degree program.
- Represent the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department professionally while respecting the privacy of the students.