NEXT Connects Mentorship Program
Today’s leading employers are increasingly open to hiring of neurodivergent employees, but there’s still much work to do.
An estimated 85% of college graduates who are neurodivergent, including those who are on the autism spectrum, are unemployed. That’s where Adelphi alumni can make a powerful difference.
By joining the NEXT Connects co-mentorship program at Adelphi, you’ll help support neurodivergent Adelphi students in the Bridges Program as they prepare to launch their careers. This unique opportunity brings together Adelphi students and alumni to build meaningful connections, promote workplace inclusion, and support long-term professional success.
Fall 2025 Launch
We are currently recruiting Adelphi students and alumni for our Fall 2025 cohort. Mentorship matches will begin in October 2025, with meetings held virtually every other week at your convenience. After a winter break, the program will resume in Spring 2026 and conclude in May. Participants will complete a total of eight virtual meetings.
Adelphi Students
If you’re neurodivergent and preparing to enter the workforce, this program is for you. Whether you’re still in school or recently graduated, NEXT Connects at Adelphi will help you strengthen your résumé, sharpen your interview skills, and build your network, with guidance from an Adelphi alum from your field who understands your journey.
Adelphi Alumni
As a proud Adelphi graduate with at least three years of work experience, you have valuable insight to share. Whether you identify as neurodivergent or neurotypical, your career wisdom and your Adelphi connection can help a student in the Bridges Program thrive. This is your chance to support the next generation of Panther graduates while deepening your own knowledge of neuro inclusive practices.
What’s Included
- Nine brief eLearnings to guide your mentorship journey
- Pre-designed discussion agendas for each session
- Flexible scheduling allowing you to meet when it works for you (8 virtual sessions total)
- Practical tools to promote neuro inclusion and career readiness
- Certificate of completion and a meaningful way to reconnect with Adelphi
About NEXT Connects
NEXT Connects is a bi-directional mentorship initiative developed by NEXT for AUTISM. The goal is to support young autistic adults entering the workforce while fostering improved acceptance and inclusion within businesses.
NEXT matches professionals who have established careers with autistic college students and recent graduates seeking entry into the workforce. Co-mentors will provide support and collaboratively set personalized mentoring goals, promote career advancement opportunities, engage in knowledge transfer, and expand neuro-inclusive practices in the workplace.