What’s an alumni association?

• First, what does alumni mean?
• Who’s considered an alum?
• What is an alumni association?
• What benefits do alumni associations provide?
• How to leverage your school’s alumni association
• Types of alumni associations
• Why join an alumni association?
• Is joining an alumni association worth it for me?
• Fun facts on the history of alumni associations
• How to join an alumni association
• Join an independent alumni network

Wondering what an alumni association is and what benefits alumni associations offer? As a college graduate or undergraduate, this question might be top of mind as you begin to think about life after commencement. Let’s uncover alumni associations’ role in the post-graduate journey, their benefits, and the networking opportunities they offer.

First, what does alumni mean?

The term “alumni” refers to former students of a university or college who have graduated or completed a program. Derived from the Latin word meaning “nourished” or “fostered,” it signifies individuals who have been educated and nurtured by an institution. Alumni are an integral part of a university’s community, often serving as ambassadors for their alma mater. They carry forward the values and knowledge imparted by their institution, contributing to its legacy and reputation.

Fun fact: did you know that the term ‘alumna’ specifically refers to a female graduate?

Who’s considered an alum?

The definition of an alum can vary from one institution to another. Generally, an alum is anyone who has earned a degree, certificate, or other academic award from a university or college. This includes undergraduate and graduate students, as well as individuals who have completed online or continuing education programs. Some institutions also recognize loyal supporters who are not graduates as “honorary alums.” This inclusive approach helps foster a broader sense of community and engagement among all who have contributed to the institution’s success.

What is an alumni association?

In short, an alumni association is a network designed for the graduates (alumni) of a university or college to stay connected.

Alumni associations can be managed by the school itself, or they might operate independently from the university. A school’s alumni association not only enables alumni to support one another, but also allows former students to give back to their alma mater. The alumni office plays a crucial role in facilitating membership and keeping alumni informed about events and opportunities.

Most alumni associations are inclusive and accessible to a broader audience, allowing not just graduates but also undergraduates and other groups to participate and gain benefits.

What benefits do alumni associations provide?

Joining an alumni network can can be one of the most rewarding steps a graduate can take after leaving their alma mater, depending on the liveliness of the school’s alumni association. Let’s take a quick look at some of the main perks.

Staying connected

Staying connected with your university and other alumni can be hugely rewarding, leading to lifelong connections and professional contacts. Luckily, most alumni associations provide opportunities for graduates to meet, connect, and bond with fellow graduates through social events.

Many universities extend an open invitation to alumni to attend campus events, such as homecomings, reunions, and guest lectures. These events are fantastic opportunities to reconnect with old friends, meet new people, and stay engaged with the university community.

Joining alumni clubs and participating in volunteer opportunities are other great ways to stay connected. These activities not only strengthen your bond with the university but also allow you to give back to the community.

Career services

One of the significant benefits of joining an alumni association is access to a wealth of career resources. Many associations offer job boards where members can find exclusive job postings tailored to their industry. Career counseling services are also available, providing personalized advice to help you navigate your professional journey. Additionally, professional development workshops, networking events, and seminars are often organized to help members stay updated with industry trends and enhance their skills.

Opportunities to give back

Opportunities to build your legacy is another benefit that alumni associations provide. Alumni play a crucial role in shaping a school’s reputation; one of the most impactful examples of this is by giving back.

Through the university’s alumni association, graduates can volunteer for campus programs, such as mentoring current students or participating in career panels. Volunteering one’s time and wisdom to help other alumni is a valuable way to give back. Additionally, alumni of a college or university might volunteer to conduct prospective student interviews, helping to shape future generations of alumni at the school.

How to leverage your school’s alumni association

Leveraging your alumni association can be a powerful way to advance your career, build relationships, and give back to your alma mater. Here are some steps to make the most of your alumni network:

1. Identify Your Goals: Determine what you hope to achieve through your alumni network. Are you seeking career opportunities, mentorship, or a sense of community?
2. Research Your Alumni Association: Learn about the benefits and services offered by your university’s alumni association, including career services, networking events, and volunteer opportunities.
3. Attend Alumni Events: Participate in alumni events such as reunions, networking receptions, and career fairs to connect with fellow alumni and build relationships.
4. Join Online Alumni Groups: Engage with online groups on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook to stay updated on alumni news and events and connect with fellow alumni.
5. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to alumni organizations or events. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your alma mater and build relationships with fellow alumni.
6. Reach Out to Fellow Alumni: Don’t hesitate to contact fellow alumni for advice, mentorship, or career opportunities. Building these connections can be invaluable for your professional growth.

Networking Etiquette

Networking etiquette is crucial for building relationships and advancing your career through your alumni network. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Be Respectful: Treat other alumni with respect and professionalism, even if you don’t know them well.
2. Be Prepared: Research the event or meeting beforehand and come prepared with questions and topics to discuss.
3. Follow Up: After meeting another alum, follow up to continue building relationships and stay in touch.
4. Be Clear and Concise: Communicate clearly and concisely, whether in person or online.
5. Be Open-Minded: Be open to learning from fellow alumni and their experiences. This openness can lead to valuable insights and opportunities.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively leverage your alumni network to enhance your career, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your alma mater’s community.

Types of alumni associations

Alumni associations come in various forms, each catering to different needs and interests. Let’s take a look at the different types of alumni associations and what their purposes are.

University-wide

University-wide associations serve all alumni of a particular university, providing a broad network that spans across different graduating classes and disciplines. These associations are perfect for those looking to maintain a general connection with their alma mater and fellow alumni.

College-specific

College-specific associations, on the other hand, focus on alumni from a specific college or school within the university. For instance, if you graduated from the College of Engineering, you might find an alumni association dedicated solely to engineering graduates. This allows for more targeted networking and support within your field of study.

Affinity-based

Affinity-based associations cater to alumni with shared interests, professions, or demographics. Whether you were part of a cultural group, a sports team, or a professional organization during your university years, there’s likely an affinity-based association that aligns with your interests. These groups provide a sense of community and belonging, helping you stay connected with like-minded individuals.

Why join an alumni association?

Alumni associations provide far more than just social reunions. Joining an alumni network can unlock a powerful web of connections, offering boundless opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and personal development. The larger your network, the more potential connections await you. One of the benefits provided by alumni associations is access to exclusive events, which can offer unique networking opportunities and experiences.

Did you know that some of the largest alumni associations, like Harvard or the University of Michigan, boast memberships in the hundreds of thousands? Having access to people that are ready to lend a hand, share advice, or open doors for new career opportunities can be a huge boost in any grad’s career journey.

Is joining an alumni association worth it for me?

Like many things in life, what you get out of an alumni association can depend on what you put in. So, if you’re wondering, “Are alumni associations worth it?” The answer is: Yes! However it depends on what you’re looking for. Ask yourself these questions when weighing whether alumni associations are worth it for you. 

For the professionally oriented alum:

• Does the alumni association offer a directory for networking?
• Does the association host professional networking events and opportunities?
• Is there a job board provided by the association?

For the socially active alum:

• Does the alumni association host local events and meetups that I can attend?
• How does the association encourage relationship-building, at the local and national level?

For the philanthropic alum:

• Does the alumni association offer ways for me to give back, to the school or to the community in general?
• Are there mentor-mentee opportunities?

For the budget-conscious alum:

• Is there a membership fee to join the alumni association? Can I comfortably afford the fee, now and in the future?
• Does the association provide me with unique perks and benefits that I can’t find anywhere else?

Being part of an alumni association can open doors to networking events, mentorship programs, and exclusive job opportunities you might not find elsewhere. It can also help you stay connected to a support system that can propel you forward in your career and life. But before you join, it’s important to double check that your university’s association is up to snuff – especially if you’re paying to join!tion is up to snuff – especially if you’re paying to join!

Fun facts on the history of alumni associations

Did you know that the oldest alumni association in the US is believed to be the Society of Alumni of Williams College, founded in 1821 in Massachusetts? Let’s dive into some of the history of alumni associations.

• 1636: Harvard University is established as the first university in the US.
• 1821: A group of alumni from Williams College met to form the Society of Alumni on September 5, making this the oldest continuing college or university alumni organization in North America.
• 1838: On July 4th, the Alumni Association of the University of Virginia becomes the sixth alumni association organized in the United States.
• 1898: The first alumni magazine, “Harvard Bulletin,” was published in 1898, setting a trend followed by many other institutions.
• 1911: The University of Missouri is credited with holding the first homecoming event in 1911, inviting alumni back to campus for a football game.
• WWII: During World War II, alumni associations in the United States played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. Many organized war bond drives and raised significant funds to support the military, showcasing the power and influence of alumni networks.
• 2024: As of today, there are over 7,833 active alumni associations in the United States.

How to join an alumni association

If you haven’t already joined your alma mater’s alumni network, just visit their website. You’ll quickly find an option to enroll in the alumni association. The alumni association may even have their own website, depending on the size! Keep in mind that while some alumni associations will be entirely free to join, others might charge a fee for participation.

Join an independent alumni network

Looking for more ways to maximize connections after commencement? Consider joining an independent alumni network like Aluum. Aluum is a social networking platform built specifically for college alumni across all universities. Our platform allows you to chat with peers, seek mentorship, find job opportunities, and more. The best part? It’s completely free to use.

So, if you haven’t already, now’s the perfect moment to explore what Aluum can offer. Pre-register to join Aluum today.