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Program Overview

The 25: Program Overview

The 25 is a cohort program dedicated to investing in career-focused students across industries with the goal of preparing for life after Bethel. Members of The 25 are given access to exclusive programming and experiences with local industry and ministry leaders, the wider Bethel community and special guests aimed at developing the next generation of leaders. 

Each fall, a new cohort of students kicks off. Members of The 25 will have the opportunity to develop deep relationships and be a sounding board for each other as they grapple with what it means to be a Christian leader, including discussing the pressing issues of the day shaping our society. These issues are discussed through the lens of the unique challenges and opportunities unique to female leaders.  

Program Objectives

Our goal is that students of all majors and interests will:

  • Know themselves by investing in their God-given talents and understanding their vocational calling
  • Lead in their industry with strong character and skills
  • Make an impact in their community 
  • Be connected to a network that spans diverse industries for career advancement

Cohort Sessions

Regular interactive cohort gatherings include teaching, leadership development, and guest panels exploring topics such as learning to lead like Jesus, practical ways to build your career, integrating faith in the workplace, money and financial literacy, well-being, learning to lead yourself and more. 

Mentoring Experiences

Our students engage in a wide range of mentoring experiences during their time in The 25. Students participate in speed-networking nights, informational interviews with local leaders, and establishing formal mentoring relationships with industry leaders as they progress through their time at Bethel. These relationships offer invaluable insights and career guidance. 

At the Speed Networking event students partner with their peers to have 10-minute conversations with a variety of industry professionals. Since each conversation includes two or three students and one professional, no one student has to carry the whole conversation. The students can relax, be curious, and learn about work that interests them from experienced people who want to help make the students' career paths a little easier. It's a low-pressure way to make some great connections!

At the Speed Networking event students partner with their peers to have 10-minute conversations with a variety of industry professionals. Since each conversation includes two or three students and one professional, no one student has to carry the whole conversation. The students can relax, be curious, and learn about work that interests them from experienced people who want to help make the students' career paths a little easier. It's a low-pressure way to make some great connections!

Stan Thompson
Director of Vocation, Pathways, and Partnerships at Bethel University

Building Community & Connections

The 25 provides opportunities for cohort members to develop meaningful relationships as they navigate college life and appreciate the distinct issues facing women in leadership today. It also provides powerful networking ties with alumni and leaders from the community and industry, fostering lasting relationships that extend far beyond their time at Bethel.