Reflections and advice from Andersen young professionals

In 2024, the Andersen Young Professionals Network, in collaboration with Andersen’s other Employee Resource Networks, created a formalized “Andersen Mentorship Program,” connecting a group within each Employee Resource Network to a mentor. With cohorts meeting monthly, the program focuses on development, leadership, conflict resolution, and more.

We are excited to spotlight three Andersen Young Professionals Network members: Amelia Cichoski , Carlie Hargesheimer , and Dakota Thole , who are all currently participating in the Mentorship Program.

Carlie Hargesheimer , Senior Business Manager, has been at Andersen for 11 years. She is currently a mentor through the Mentorship Program. Carlie said "When I first started at Andersen, ERN’s were just gaining traction and AYPN was in the early stages of development. It’s truly incredible to see what this ERN has become and the number of connections it has helped create. I find tremendous value in connection and this program has allowed me to extend my internal network and meet incredible individuals who I might not have otherwise had the chance to meet."

Oftentimes mentorship is seen as a one-way relationship. What have you learned from your mentees and has this changed your approach to development?

"I am a true believer that mentorship is a two-way relationship. I get just as much out of a mentorship relationship as hopefully my mentee(s) do. These connections are what I refer to as “fill my cup” experiences and energize me at work."

Amelia Cichoski , Financial Analyst

What is your involvement with AYPN's mentorship program?and what value has it brought you?

"I am a mentee in AYPN's mentor program. It has been very valuable getting career advice from a mentor outside of the finance team - this has helped broaden my perspective. Carlie is a great mentor and has given a lot of helpful advice on leadership, work/life balance, goal setting, and more!"

Has the mentorship program changed your approach to career development?

"This program and Carlie's mentorship have helped me understand the importance of setting aside time to reflect on my goals and my career development. A useful reflection tool I learned from Carlie is reflecting on what gives you energy and what drains you at work; reflecting on this has helped me better understand the career path I want to take."

Dakota Thole , Industrial Engineer II

What is your involvement with AYPN’s mentor program and what value has it brought you??

"It has been a great experience for me. I’m grateful that I have gained Carlie as a mentor and professional connection within Andersen for years to come. Both in our group meetings and our individual 1:1’s, I have learned so much from her approaches both as a leader and as an individual."

Has the mentorship program changed your approach to career development?

"I wouldn’t say my approach has changed, but my vision of what the future could look like is more open now. You never know where the next opportunity is going to come from. It could come from a different area of focus and not be something within your comfort zone. If it peaks your interest and you believe you would be a good fit, then go for it!"

To members of Andersen’s Employee Resource Networks: Thank you for helping us learn from each other and become a more unified team!