The backpack 2 Briefcase Program

Backpack to Briefcase

Be a mentor to students and new graduates!

The backpack 2 Briefcase (b2B) program needs and wants alumni like you to help students make the transition from university to a rewarding career. Industry nights are a highlight of the b2B program and include question-and-answer sessions that give students the opportunity to explore their next career steps and provide tools to navigate the current job market.

If you’re willing to be a mentor supporting students and new graduates in their professional journey, submit your volunteer application.

Apply to mentor today

Stay connected

Join the U of T Faculty of Arts & Science Alumni LinkedIn group to stay connected to new graduates and your own classmates — stay tuned to upcoming events by joining the group and build professional connections to enhance your own career and network.

Arts & Science students in an event

What students are saying

"This program is terrific; it's always so relieving to hear alumni stories of struggle and success, as it provides comfort and builds confidence to us as undergrads, knowing they were in the exact same positions as we are now. They also point out the difficulties they faced when exploring the job market, which is also interesting to hear, and helps us mentally prepare for the upcoming challenges we will face when looking for our first jobs." — French student

"It was incredibly interesting to listen to the panelists' experiences and how their decisions impacted their career. I was able to draw inspiration from that and focus on how to better leverage opportunities. The insights into the recruiting process allowed me to better prepare and present myself in front of campus recruiters." — Computer science student

"The most meaningful part of the event was when panelists were forthright in discussing their setbacks and failures in their career development, along with strategies on how to bounce back from common pitfalls. Career development is filled with uncertainty and anxiety for many students. The pandemic has worsened this, and it's reassuring to hear panelists discuss failure in a candid and accepting manner." — History student