Program Objectives

• Foster a supportive education environment
• Help with academic, social, personal and goal setting skills which enable students to understand the challenges of college and enhance opportunities for academic success
• Motivate students’ involvement and form bonds in the campus community and within the college
• Improve communication and promote interaction between students, faculty, and staff
• Perform assessments on the performance, retention and success of students including investigating reasons for stop out and drop out
• Allow Student Support Services greater understanding of students’ challenges and obstacles
• Assist students in developing a positive self-image through special workshops, speakers and cultural activities
• Serve as a liaison between the student, staff, and instructors when called upon
• Orient and direct students to campus and community resources and support services
• Help develop students’ leadership and self-advocacy skills
• Help provide a supportive and caring environment for the student

Mentor and Mentee Roles

• What is the Role of a Mentor?
• What is the Role of a Mentee?

Why do we encourage a Peer Mentor Program?

Many students transitioning from high school to college or beginning college after having been in the workforce have the following challenges:

• Poor pre-college preparation
• Poor understanding of their college responsibilities and obligations
• Lack of college knowledge in which mentors can provide the following:
  – Assistance in seeking resources and services on campus
  – Assistance with study skills; however, this is not a tutoring role
  – Assistance in organization and time management skills
• Limited career aspirations
• Lack of family support
• First generation college student
• Experiences disconnect between school and family cultures
• May experience lack of connection to campus community
• May have ill-defined career goals or educational aspirations
• Other family, community, and employment obligations and commitments

I am interested! How do I get started?

If you are interested in either being a mentor or a mentee, please fill out a Peer Mentor Application (which includes a Responsibility Agreement) or a Peer Mentee Application (which includes a Responsibility Agreement) online.

We will begin each semester with a “Kick-Off Luncheon” and some activities to help you feel comfortable in your role. Each semester we will have a few activities scheduled for mentors to receive further training if desired. At the end of the semester we will celebrate the conclusion of the term.