Conceptualizing Alumni Engagement: Exploring The Attributes and Practices of Alumni Associations to Help Student Success

Abstract

This study explores how the attributes and practices of alumni associations help students succeed in entering the workforce. The knowledge gained by students in higher education is not always relevant to the world of work or the field. Several differences make students need to get actual knowledge that occurs in the world of work or the field. To achieve this, alumni support is needed as a higher education investment and to share their experiences with students. Universities need to provide facilities for students to discuss with alumni about work experiences gained so that students can prepare themselves for the world of work. Data were collected using interviews with department heads, and several alumni and students who had been involved in these activities. This study resulted in a model for the involvement of alumni at the "X" College, to support the success of students in entering the world of work. This program creates a positive impact on higher education institutions, students, and even alumni. Evaluation from alumni is highly expected as a measure of the success of the program and the sustainability of existing programs. With good relations between universities and alumni, the sustainability of the program for students can be carried out continuously. With the implementation of this alumni involvement model, it is hoped that it can maximize the participation of alumni in the "X" College.