Start-to-Finish Mentorship Program builds lifelong Wildcat connections

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 9, 2025) — The University of Kentucky Center for Graduate and Professional Studies (CGPS) is helping Wildcats strengthen their academic and professional networks through the Start-to-Finish (STF) Mentorship Program — now hosted on the Wildcat Network.

This unique initiative connects students, faculty, staff and alumni in meaningful one-on-one mentorships designed to inspire growth, confidence and success from college to career. By matching participants based on academic discipline and personal interests, the program fosters connections that are as authentic as they are impactful.

“At its core, Start-to-Finish puts graduate and professional students at the center,” said David Robinson, associate director of CGPS. “They can mentor undergraduates or be mentored themselves by faculty, postdocs, staff or alumni — creating a continuous cycle of learning and leadership.”

One standout mentorship pairing demonstrates the program’s powerful ripple effect: Amos Akinyemi, a Ph.D. candidate in toxicology and cancer biology, and Johnathan Sehkar, an undergraduate pre-med student majoring in human health sciences.

Their partnership began with a shared curiosity about STEM but quickly evolved into something deeper. Through regular conversations, Amos and Johnathan explored not only research techniques but also the personal side of academic success — building resilience, confidence and a sense of belonging in their field.

“Mentorship isn’t just about getting answers; it’s about having someone who helps you find your own path,” Sehkar said. “Amos has been that guide for me, patiently offering encouragement and giving me the confidence to pursue my career goals.”

That collaboration led to a major milestone: a co-authored research article published in the Cureus Springer Nature Open Access Journal. The accomplishment provided Sehkar with invaluable experience in research design, peer collaboration and academic publishing and gave both mentee and mentor a tangible reminder of what mentorship can achieve.

“Being a first-generation college student means there are a lot of people looking up to me, and that drives my dedication,” Sehkar said. “It’s a constant motivator to stay passionate about my goals and really commit to opportunities like the ones this mentorship provided.”

For Akinyemi, serving as a mentor has been equally transformative.

“I just don’t want to be a lone ranger as I grow; I want to make sure those younger ones learn from my little experience,” Akinyemi said.

Although their formal mentorship period has ended, Akinyemi remains a committed supporter of Sehkar’s journey. Their bond continues to grow, reflecting the enduring impact of the Start-to-Finish program.

Participants across the program have echoed similar experiences of mutual growth and gratitude.

“Mentoring has been as much a learning experience for me as it has been for my mentee,” one participant said. “I’ve developed a more attentive and empathetic ear and learned the value of patience, adaptability and meaningful communication.”

“As a mentor, it was fulfilling because I wish I had someone to mentor me when I was in their situation,” another participant said.

“Through the program, I was able to help my mentee navigate challenges — which is what mentorship stands for,” said another participant.

Register here to participate in the Start-to-Finish Kickoff event on Oct. 14.