On February 2, the Big Brothers Big Sisters' Workplace Mentoring Program of the Inland Empire held a lunch and learn event for SBVC students to learn about the benefits of its program for SBVC students, hosted in partnership with SBVC's Student Equity division. Through the mentoring program, students are partnered with skilled professionals with exposure to major corporations to develop the real-life skills necessary for future career success.

The program is open to students 18 and older, who live in the Inland Empire, attend SBVC or another local participating community college, and commit to attending monthly mentoring sessions. Participants are matched with mentors from local businesses who have similar interests and personalities. By working with students as they transition from school to the workforce, program mentors are helping them strengthen vital professional skills, build their resumes, and enhance their networking abilities. Students who attended the lunch shared positive feedback. One student, Giovanni, said he liked the idea of "having guidance from a mentor that has experience and knowledge that they can share."

"It is important that our students are exposed to our community partners in ways that they can connect and network," Sharaf Williams, associate dean of student support services, said. "In addition, it shines a spotlight on what is great in the Inland Empire, and that there are 
additional resources and support out there." After successful completion of the mentorship program, students will receive a reference letter from their mentor, a LinkedIn badge, and a certificate. The program provides the support and training necessary to help even more students succeed throughout their academic efforts and beyond.