USCA students ‘LEAP’ into mentorship program with SRS

USCA recently celebrated an innovative partnership with the Savannah River Site (SRS), known as LEAP Ahead.

SRS offers a peer-to-peer professional development program, Leaders Emerging Among Professionals (LEAP). It’s available to early-career staff who have seven or less years of professional or on-site experience.

Carson Williams, USCA ‘20, now works for Savannah River Mission Completion and participates in LEAP.

She believed a similar, college-level program might benefit students. Williams wanted to expand it beyond her employer, sharing opportunities for growth and mentorship with students at her alma mater.

“I know when I was in college, I wanted the inside scoop on jobs,” Williams said. “I wanted to know how my skills and degree translated to the jobs I was seeking and what to expect beginning my professional career.

“LEAP Ahead gives students opportunities to network with professionals and get a better understanding of what it’s like in the professional world.” 

USCA and SRS collaborated on the framework for the program, which includes leadership development and professional mentorship. Specifically, LEAP Ahead will offer students career guidance, networking opportunities, professional skills development and workplace expectations.

Mentorship is a key component of the program. During the kick-off celebration at the university, participating Pacers met their individual mentors from SRS who volunteered to help develop next-generation leaders.

“We have a passion for helping others achieve their goals and really want to give back when we have the opportunity. Through LEAP Ahead, we want to provide support for students taking the next big step,” Williams said.

USCA’s initial LEAP Ahead cohort includes 31 students from all disciplines, representing STEM programs, nursing, education, business and humanities.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.