Alumni Relations-The strength of organizations
The word Alumni is derived from Latin. “Alumnus” – in Latin refers to a male graduate or former student. The plural of which is “alumni”.
“Alumna” - a feminine noun – refers to a female, former student. The plural is “alumnae”
Importance of Alumni relations
At the school level, as the institution gradually develops and spreads its wings, it becomes very essential to build a good alumni network.
The students have spent a good ten to twelve years with each other. Some of the students have been together since kindergarten. They have shared a major chunk of their early lives in close proximity and are accustomed to the academic and creative challenges education provides within the boundaries of the school.
There were a myriad of emotions, ranging from positivity to negativity-innocent moments, joys, sorrows, challenges, painful moments of anger, jealousy.
At this juncture of their lives, after their 10th or 12th standard, students move to face different frontiers on their journey to achieve success and fame in their chosen career path.
This new terrain is a scary, profoundly unfamiliar, and intensely exciting one to begin to explore. It is but natural, as, in any relationship, the students will find the initial days of separation difficult to adjust to. This is where the Alumni will be a great boon.
Associating with the school-staff and other schoolmates will surely boost their confidence and help them become emotionally, stable and mature. Students going through a personal loss, shy introverts, or those who require help with their educational pursuits will benefit greatly from an Alumni.
A bond that binds.
People who belong to the same school or organization share a bond that connects them even when they did not attend at the same time. It is a connection that can be very meaningful and in many ways supportive.
A strong and committed Alumni is a way forward for the students of the future as well. The younger generation will look up to their seniors who are accomplished legends in their own right with great pride and cherish the legacy of belonging to the same institution.
Alumni across various institutions in India are yet to gain momentum, but many institutions are promoting and propagating the necessity of indomitable alumni relations.
Benefits of efficient alumni relations
- Networking - An alumni association is an immense network of professional contacts to seek introductions, recommendations, or interviews.
- Enhancing career prospects - Alumni are usually offered exclusive job postings, resume reviews, webinars, networking events, and a variety of online videos and resources—often free of charge or at nominal charges.
- Lifelong Email connection -The student can have this facility, so that the requirements and opportunities may be forwarded as soon as a suitable opening is found.
- Voluntary programs - Alumni can play an active role in mentoring students in their areas of expertise. They could also play a significant role in contributing scholarships to deserving students.
- Financial aid - Financial support can be given for higher education as well. Students can be given travel, disability, or long-term care insurance, etc. A group plan on these financial services can be given to persons who wish to set up their own enterprise.
Reunion events can be organized at least once in two years; Students can be allowed to make use of campus resources; provision of guidance for higher education opportunities; e-seminars, and virtual events to promote camaraderie; Sharing content that makes alumni feel connected (user-generated content, alumni success stories, newsletters)