Spears Network
JOIN THE SPEARS NETWORK One platform - multiple ways to connect
The Spears Network is the official platform connecting Spears Business students and alumni. Message professionals directly, engage in community groups and opt into programs like Mentor Match — all in one place.
SPEARS NETWORKMake real connections Inside the Spears Network, you'll find programs designed to help you grow professionally and stay connected to the Cowboy community.
For students
Browse public alumni profiles, connect with professionals in your field, join a one-on-one Mentor Match, or drop into quick Cowboy Conversations — on your schedule.
For alumni & friends
Pay it forward. Share your experience with the next generation of Cowboys. Set your own availability and engagement preferences — connect on your terms.
For faculty & staff
Build a direct bridge to alumni and friends. Strengthen industry ties for your students and stay connected to the broader Spears community.
Inside the Spears Network
Cowboy Conversations
The default way to connect on Spears Network. The moment your profile is approved, you can browse alumni and friends of the community and start a direct one-on-one conversation. It's that simple — no application, no waiting list, no extra steps.
- Students browse public alumni & friend profiles and message anyone directly
- Alumni and friends receive messages and connect one-on-one with students
- Reach out about careers, industries, advice — whatever's on your mind
- Connect on your own schedule, completely at your own pace
Community Groups
Open discussion boards inside the Spears Network where all members — students, alumni, faculty, and staff — can post, share ideas, and engage with the broader Cowboys community.
- Visible and open to all members
- Great for industry topics, career questions & announcements
- New groups and content being added regularly
Programs
Structured opportunities available inside the Spears Network that you can opt into after joining. Each program has its own focus, timeline, and eligibility.
- Mentor Match — semester-long 1-on-1 mentorship, open to all students & alumni/friends
- Matched by field of study, goals & shared interests
- Min. 3 meetings + 1 networking event per semester
FAQs
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How long does it take to set up a profile?
Profile setup takes roughly 5–15 minutes depending on how much detail you include. You can speed things up by signing in with your LinkedIn account — it imports your work and education history automatically, so you spend less time filling in the blanks.
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Can I just network without joining a mentoring program?
Absolutely. Networking and mentoring are two separate parts of the platform. Once your profile is approved, you can browse and connect with others in the community without ever joining Cowboy Conversations or Mentor Match.
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Who can see my profile?
You're in control. Profiles can be set to public or private and edited at any time. For privacy, student profiles are not visible to other students. Alumni and friends with public profiles can be discovered by students and other professionals on the platform.
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How are Mentor Match pairs made?
Pairings are based on academic area, field of study and shared goals. Both students and mentors complete a short set of registration questions, and the Eastin Center makes thoughtful matches from there.
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What does the Mentor Match commitment look like?
At minimum, mentors and mentees meet three times during the semester (via video, phone or in person) and attend one networking event together. The hope is that connections formed grow well beyond those minimums — many do.
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What should I talk about with my mentor?
There's no single right answer, but popular topics include: career path exploration, professional work environments, resume and cover letter feedback, industry insights, preparing for the job market and academic planning. Your mentor is there to share real-world experience — use it!
Your next connection is waiting
Join the Spears Network today — start messaging alumni through Cowboy Conversations, engage in Community Groups, and unlock Programs like Mentor Match. All in one platform, built for Cowboys.