The Connexions Alumni Mentorship Program (CAMP) is a 9-month initiative designed to connect U.S. alumni from Russia across generations, sectors, and geographies. The program pairs experienced professionals (mentors) with motivated alumni (mentees) and helps both sides grow through structured goal-setting, regular communication, and community-building.

CAMP helps alumni strengthen leadership skills, advance career paths, and contribute to positive change in their communities. Mentor–mentee pairs work together throughout the program, supported by training, monthly check-ins, and a vibrant alumni network.

The 2026 cycle will begin with a program launch that includes mentor training, a networking event for all participants, and an interactive game that helps pairs connect, establish expectations, and start defining goals for the months ahead.

Connexions Alumni Mentorship Program (CAMP)

Applications for 2026
are officially closed!

Thank you to everyone who applied — we’re genuinely grateful for your interest and participation.

For exchange alumni, mentoring and peer-to-peer collaboration really matter. They turn our shared experiences into mutual support, practical advice, and lasting connections. Your participation in CAMP keeps the feeling of a larger alumni community alive long after the exchange ends.

This year, we received 72 applications from alumni across different fields and from different corners of the world. We’re truly excited about what comes next and can’t wait to meet you all very soon.

Stay tuned –– the next chapter of CAMP is just beginning!

Program Timeline

1. Application Submissions (December 2025 - February 2026)

  • Submission start - December 25, 2025

  • Deadline - February 1, 2026

2. Program Launch (February 2026)

  • Kickoff event for all participants

  • Mentor training session with an invited expert

  • Structured networking for mentors and mentees

  • Interactive game to help pairs get to know each other and articulate their expectations

2. Matching & Goal Setting (February 2026)

  • Pairs are matched based on interests, experience, and development goals

  • Mentors and mentees define a clear roadmap for the next 9 months

  • Agreements cover communication style, meeting frequency, and expected outcomes

3. Continuous Work (Months 1–9)

  • Regular one-on-one meetings

  • Monthly progress reports that help mentees stay accountable and mentors track development

  • Access to community resources, peer support, and optional thematic meetups

5. Final Event (October 2026)

  • Community celebration and reflection

  • Sharing success stories and lessons learned

  • Recognition of mentors and mentees

  • Networking to support ongoing collaborations beyond CAMP

Why Participate as a Mentor?

  • Share your expertise with impact. Support a fellow alum who is building a career or project that matters.

  • Develop leadership and coaching skills. CAMP includes expert-led mentor training sessions that strengthen communication, feedback, and guidance skills.

  • Expand your professional network. Connect with peers across fields, countries, and program cohorts.

  • Contribute to the alumni community. Help us shape the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

  • Experience meaningful, reciprocal learning. Mentors often find that mentees enrich their own perspectives and spark new ideas.

Why Participate as a Mentee?

  • Receive guidance. Work with a mentor who understands your field, challenges, and aspirations.

  • Set and achieve your goals. Over nine months, develop a structured plan and stay accountable with monthly check-ins.

  • Grow your skills. Whether you’re thinking about a career shift, launching a project, strengthening your leadership, or figuring out your next move, your mentor will help you navigate it.

  • Build long-lasting connections. CAMP offers a safe, inspiring space to meet peers and expand your network across the global alumni community.

  • Gain confidence and clarity. Mentorship gives you a safe place to ask questions, test ideas, and receive honest, encouraging feedback.

CAMP 2025 Quotes:
What Participants Are Saying

“My mentee started giving paid consultations to colleagues and has updated her social media profiles to reflect that she is also a teacher trainer, not just a teacher. She has also looked into several conferences and is looking forward to submitting her talk proposals to teacher training conferences.”

“The program… encourages networking as well as building rapport and trust among the alumni community. Excellent opportunity for networking.”

“... this is a unique opportunity, most encouraging and uplifting. I appreciate the networking and mentoring elements very much.”