Elevating Success: Conor Perry’s Journey Through Mentorship
Poole student Conor Perry gained confidence and career direction through the college's Elevate Mentorship Program, learning from a C-suite mentor.
Navigating the transition from college to the professional world can be overwhelming. For Conor Perry, a junior accounting major who wanted to pursue professional development, the 2024-2025 Elevate Mentorship Program offered the perfect opportunity to gain direction, insight, and confidence.
The Elevate Mentorship Program is designed to connect students with experienced mentors who guide them through personal and professional growth. While monthly Zoom meetings provide a structured touchpoint for all participants, the program empowers students to take ownership of their mentorship experience. For Perry, this meant scheduling regular one-on-one meetings with mentor Jason Cash, CFO for Aptitude Health, who has helped shape Perry’s professional outlook.
“The Poole College of Management Mentorship Program is more than just networking,” said AG Osborne, Poole College’s undergraduate mentor program coordinator. “Through meaningful mentor relationships, hands-on professional development and reflective learning, students gain confidence, skills, and connections to launch successful careers. This program isn’t just about what happens during the school year — it’s about equipping students with lifelong strategies for growth, networking and career development.”
“Jason and I meet one to two times a month via Zoom, and we also communicate through email,” Perry shared. “When possible, we even meet in person. It’s a very casual yet productive environment where I can ask questions, gain insights and feel supported.”
With many high-impact experiences available, Perry chose Elevate because it aligned perfectly with his needs at the time. Entering junior year felt overwhelming, and Perry wanted a structured way to enhance his professional development.
“This program isn’t just about what happens during the school year — it’s about equipping students with lifelong strategies for growth, networking and career development.”
“I felt like I was behind and needed guidance on how to move forward,” Perry explained. “Being paired with a high-level mentor seemed like the best way to get the direction I needed.”
Perry’s mentorship with Cash has covered a range of important topics, including career path strategies, internship opportunities and navigating different firms. Beyond industry knowledge, Perry has also gained practical skills — both hard and soft.
“One key skill I’ve developed is how to craft professional emails,” Perry said. “A lot of advice online suggests long, detailed follow-ups after an interview, but Cash recommended keeping them concise, simple and personal. This has helped me refine my communication style.”
In addition, the mentorship has boosted Perry’s professionalism and confidence. “I now understand how to approach different situations and represent myself in a way that feels both authentic and polished.”
Perry believes that the Evelate Mentorship Program has provided a solid foundation for future career success.
“Having a mentor like Cash gives me the confidence to pursue my professional goals,” Perry noted. “I now feel better prepared to engage with other professionals and make informed career decisions.”
For students considering a mentorship program, Perry offers this advice: “What you put into the program is what you’ll get out of it. If you take the initiative to reach out and engage with your mentor, you’ll build a strong relationship that can help you achieve your goals.”
Through Elevate, Perry has gained more than just professional insights — he’s developed meaningful connections and a clearer vision for the future. As the program continues, Perry is excited to keep learning, growing and taking steps toward a successful career.
