First-Gen Scholars Peer-Mentorship Program
About the program
The First Gen Scholars Peer- Mentorship Program connects first-generation incoming
and first-year transfer students with upperclassman first-generation students. Peer
mentors provide guidance, resources, advice, connections, and support to new U of
U students. Through a shared identity of being a first-generation student, the mentor
and mentee relationship improves the first-year experience and builds a connection
to the U.
Our goal with the peer-mentorship program is to provide first-generation students
the knowledge, confidence, and tools to grow their network and advance in their career
endeavors through peer-mentorship.
Peer mentors support our first-generation college students by assisting with the transition to university life through holistic support, individualized meetings, hosting networking events, and maintaining ongoing communication throughout the academic year with mentees and the First Gen Scholars staff team.
Become a mentor
Become a part of the First Gen Scholars family by serving as a peer mentor*!
We are seeking proactive mentors who are passionate about supporting first-generation undergraduate students as they navigate through their U of U experience. You know first-hand what it is like to be a first-generation student at the U, so why not apply those experiences to become a professional role model and provide helpful career guidance?
Preference is given to students who have previously attended the First Gen Scholars program. Students are selected through an application process. Selected mentors will get an interview and be notified via email in mid to late July about the position. The program requires a commitment of one school year (August-May). Throughout each semester, we will hold once-a-month workshops/events, and all mentees and mentors are encouraged to participate. These events will allow an opportunity for all program participants to network and interact as a group. Furthermore, mentors are required to attend one First Gen Scholar cohort class once a month.
*undocumented students are welcome to apply.
Preferred skills, traits, & experience
- Enjoy interacting with new people from a variety of different backgrounds
- Ability to work on a team with clear communication and a friendly atmosphere
- Ability to problem solve, think creatively, work with uncertainty, and change structures
- Interest in community-building with a focus on supporting and celebrating diversity
- Knowledge of power, privilege, and social justice among other ideas
Spots are limited
Position qualifications
- Have completed at least one year at the University of Utah by the time the position begins (Aug. 1, 2023)
- Must be in good standing with the University of Utah, both academically and in conduct
- Must maintain a minimum of 2.5 GPA
- Must commit to the same mentor partner, cohort, and family for the FULL academic year.
Responsibilities
- Mentor-mentee ratio 1:7-8 new U students.
- Monthly 1:1 meeting with each mentee
- Conduct weekly outreach messaging/check-ins.
- Must attend monthly mentor meetings with FGS leadership team.
- Attend mandatory training & monthly events.
- Must come to an FGS cohort class once a month and arrive at least 5 minutes before class.
- Cannot have more than 2 unexcused absences.
- Must communicate with First Gen staff and student leaders in advance if anything comes up
- Facilitate connections to campus involvement, needed resources, etc.
- Provide college success tips and strategies.
- Must be active and responsive in the Mentor GroupMe.
- Must update mentor hours every week on an Excel sheet.
Compensation
- Peer mentors will commit to an employment period that formally begins August 1, 2024, and formally ends May 1, 2025.
- Peer Mentors will receive a pre-tax compensation total of $1,500, which will be distributed evenly in bi-weekly installments throughout the Fall and Spring semesters.
- 5 hours a week / 15 weeks - $10/hr - $750/semester $1,500/year
- 1 hr - in the class per month
- 10 hrs for CRLA training per year
- 5 hours a week total or 20 hours a month
- Monthly mentor meetings with FGS leadership team
Mentor hours
Every hour spent with mentees goes towards your required hours, texting, hanging out and any interaction with your family individually or together counts toward your hours.
Student Impact
The mentor-mentee relationship that is fostered throughout the First Gen Scholars Peer-Mentorship Program allows students to learn from someone with whom they can connect and provides mentors the opportunity to share their insight and advice to ensure student success.
What you will gain
You will gain professional development and career direction while fostering a relationship with a person who can be a mentor and role model. You can discuss any concerns or challenges you face as a first-generation college student at the U while gaining support, direction, and connectivity from your mentor. It is especially important during these uncertain times to build community and learn from others to prepare you for your future.