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Starting college is a big transition, but you don't have to do it alone.
FastStart is a mentoring program that connects first-year Penn State Greater Allegheny students with both a faculty or staff mentor and a Penn State alumni mentor. Together, they provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world insight to help students build confidence, navigate college, and prepare for future success.
Supported by the Penn State Alumni Association, FastStart has helped first-year students succeed through mentorship, connection, and personalized support since 1996. At the Greater Allegheny campus, the program is strengthened by a dedicated endowment established by the Penn State Alumni Association Greater Pittsburgh Chapter. Created specifically to support Greater Allegheny students, the endowment helps expand access to mentorship and honors the legacy of Franco Harris, a passionate advocate for student success.
How FastStart Works
FastStart uses a three-person mentoring model designed to support students throughout their first year.
Each participating student is matched with:
- A Penn State faculty or staff mentor
- A Penn State alumni mentor
Matches are made through LionLink based on shared interests and experiences to help create meaningful mentoring relationships.
Why Participate?
Whether you're a student or a mentor, FastStart is an opportunity to build meaningful connections and grow together.
Students
As a mentee, you'll gain support as you adjust to college life and work toward your goals. Mentors can help you:
- Navigate your first year at Penn State
- Explore academic and career opportunities
- Build confidence and leadership skills
- Develop time management and study strategies
- Connect with campus resources
Alumni Mentors
Share your Penn State experience and help the next generation of Nittany Lions succeed.
As an alumni mentor, you can:
- Share personal and professional experiences
- Offer career advice and networking opportunities
- Encourage personal and professional growth
- Support students throughout their first year
Faculty and Staff Mentors
Help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Faculty and staff mentors:
- Provide academic guidance
- Connect students with campus resources
- Encourage goal setting and academic success
- Help students develop effective study and time management skills
How to Get Involved
Registration opens each fall through LionLink. Student and mentor matches are made in January and continue throughout the academic year. To participate, you must have a LionLink account.
For more information email [email protected].
