UTM alumni Tychelle Johnson and Karen Kwan Anderson on mentorship and life after graduation

Tychelle Johnson (left) and Karen Kwan Anderson pose for a photo following the closing reception of the New Graduate Mentorship Program held on campus at UTM.

When University of Toronto Mississauga graduate Tychelle Johnson (BA 2024) walked across the stage at Convocation, she knew she was ready for the next chapter, she just wasn’t sure how it would look. Enter the New Graduate Mentorship Program, which pairs recent UTM graduates with alumni mentors who can offer insight, encouragement and real-world advice. 

Through a customized application process, Tychelle was matched with Karen Kwan Anderson (BA 1994) a long-time UTM Alumni Mentor and Citizenship and Immigration Lawyer who has guided countless students as a mentor.  Together, they built a connection that shaped how both view mentorship and life after graduation.  

Why did you decide to take part in the New Graduate Mentorship Program?  

Tychelle:  “After graduation, life suddenly went quiet. I didn’t have assignments or deadlines anymore, and I didn’t have a clear next step, either. Although I learned a lot during my program, I didn’t have any job leads and I was craving direction. When I saw the email about UTM’s New Graduate Mentorship Program, I immediately thought, this is exactly what I need. Something told me this opportunity would lead somewhere important and I’m so glad I trusted that instinct.”  

Karen: “I’ve been involved with UTM’s Alumni Mentorship Program for over 10 years now. Every year, I’m drawn back by the chance to share knowledge and experiences that might help someone else. It’s deeply rewarding to pass along what I’ve learned and I always end up learning something new about myself in the process.”  

Why do you think you have both had such a strong connection?  

Karen: “The connection with Tychelle was strong right from our first emails. She came across as articulate, curious and open, someone who embraces learning and growth. Even before our first meeting, I had a sense we’d get along well.”  

Tychelle: “Karen is such an altruist by nature. She has a rare ability to meet you exactly where you are while gently expanding your perspective. From the start, she made me feel comfortable being honest about my fears and hopes. She helped me see that my path doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.”  

Was there a significant moment or conversation that stood out from your experience?  

Karen: “Yes! I remember when Tychelle asked whether she should take on certain opportunities while preparing for the LSAT. I told her to take on as many as she could, because you never know which experience will lead to something bigger. I shared how a few unexpected decisions in my own career ended up shaping my entire trajectory.”  

Tychelle: “I’ll never forget when Karen shared her story about law school and that while she didn’t have a perfect GPA or LSAT score, she built a meaningful and successful career. It made me realize that success isn’t defined by perfection. Her honesty taught me that perseverance is far more powerful than flawless execution.”  

How has mentorship influenced your outlook on your career and future? 

Tychelle: “This mentorship has completely reshaped how I think about success. I used to believe I needed to have everything figured out by graduation. Now I see that life unfolds in seasons, and this one, for me, is about exploration. I recently earned my Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification and plan to teach abroad for a year. It’s a chance to grow, travel and rediscover myself outside the classroom.”  

Karen: “Each mentee makes me pause and reflect on the decisions that brought me to where I am. It’s refreshing, and their questions often remind me of why I chose this path in the first place. With Tychelle, our conversations were full of curiosity and optimism, which is energizing to be around.” 

What advice would you give to recent grads considering the New Graduate Mentorship Program?  

Tychelle: “Finish the application and see where it takes you! Don’t hold yourself back out of fear or comparison. Your journey doesn’t have to mirror anyone else’s to be meaningful. Give yourself permission to grow slowly and explore widely and make use of the amazing resources UTM offers to grads, like this program.”  

What advice would you give to alumni considering mentoring with UTM?  

Karen: “To alumni considering becoming mentors… do it! You’ll learn just as much as your mentee. Mentorship sharpens your listening and reflection skills and you’ll find joy in watching someone else’s confidence grow.” 

Do you plan to keep in touch?  

Karen: “We definitely plan to stay in touch. After the program’s closing reception, I invited Tychelle to observe a Small Claims Court trial I presided over last summer. I’ve also told her she can reach out anytime for advice about law school or the legal field.” 

Tychelle: “I absolutely plan to stay in touch. Karen told me to send her a postcard from wherever I end up teaching abroad, and I definitely will! Her impact on me runs deep. She’s a reminder that mentorship can truly change how you see yourself and your potential.” 

Originally published by University of Toronto Mississauga