LinkedIn as a Mentorship Hub: Unlocking the Power of Social Media for Sustained Student Engagement with Alumni

Abstract

This case study evaluates Crosby Kids (CK), a private LinkedIn-based mentorship community that links journalism students at a historically Black university with alumni professionals. Grounded in Social Identity Theory, it examines engagement, perceived value, and career outcomes. Survey and qualitative data were analyzed using dual AI platforms under human supervision to enhance transparency. Findings show sustained engagement through active participation and strategic observation. Among internship students who completed structured professional development before joining CK, 40% reported securing a job or internship. Results suggest LinkedIn can support professional identity development and career readiness in a scalable mentorship environment.

Keywords

LinkedIn alumni social identity theory mentorship college students HBCUs

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