Using AI to connect curious minds
Ask an Alum is a new digital tool that enables LSE students and alumni to connect with each other to seek advice on a particular topic – from how to start a career in a specific industry to the best tips for relocating to a new city. The tool uses AI to match questions received via a simple online form to the alumni who are best placed to answer them. Alumni recipients can then choose to share their insight and support directly via email.
Through smart use of AI, Ask an Alum enables LSE students to receive valuable career insights, creates opportunities for networking amongst our alumni community and facilitates building longer and more personal connections. Since its launch in October 2022, it has facilitated more than 3,000 successful connections – such as the one initiated by a first-year undergraduate student in the Department of Government who wanted to apply for internships at Google.
After meeting with her LSE Careers Adviser and being encouraged to reach out to the alumni community, the student wrote into Ask an Alum asking for advice on applying to the programme. Within an hour, she received two responses from alumni working at Google offering their help, encouragement, some resources for her to read, and their time to chat through her application over a phone call.
Ask an Alum offers a simple flexible way for alumni to share their valuable knowledge and expertise with students and fellow graduates, harnessing the fantastic support they are eager to provide.
After using Ask an Alum, I had an insightful 30-minute call with the person who volunteered to answer my question. He explained his career path so far in more detail, discussed the obstacles he encountered on the way, and shared valuable information on what is the best way to enter the sector. He also advised me on ways in which I could enhance my profile to enter the sector as soon as I finish my master's. We also set up another meeting to touch base on my progress. I find Ask an Alum an extremely valuable platform as it not only works as a Q&A, but also as a great networking tool.
I had a request for some career guidance and had a good conversation with the student. The platform made it easy to connect and the experience was very enjoyable. It feels good to give back.
