Benefits for Incoming Mentees

Who are Mentees?
Mentees are first generation in college students who volunteer to participate in the program because they are interested in their personal and educational growth.

As a Mentee, you will be paired with a Peer Mentor who will provide the guidance in assisting you in reaching your educational and/or personal goals. Peer Mentors are assigned to help ensure a smooth transition from high school to college life, while encouraging academic and personal success at USF. Peer Mentors will familiarize you with available campus resources, act as a referral resource, and expose you to social and cultural activities available on campus. The relationship is based on mutual respect and good communication.

Mentees participating in the Jump Start Program will:

• Be matched with an experienced student committed to your success;
• Learn about the university and the USF community;
• Learn about available campus organizations;
• Develop a network of support with University administrators and staff;
• Participate in workshops designed to increase academic preparedness;
• Experience an atmosphere of professionalism, trust and respect;
• Build relationships with current USF students that can last a lifetime.

Peer Mentors

Who are Peer Mentors?
Peer Mentors are students at the sophomore, junior, and senior level who are highly motivated, enthusiastic, and willing to share their experiences and insights with FGIC students. Having a background similar to yours, Peer Mentors understand the anxieties facing many first year students upon their arrival at USF.

Expectations for Peer Mentors

• Share your experiences, insight, and advice
• Help students understand how to handle academic situations
• Introduce students to various social and cultural activities
• Encourage students by increasing self-confidence, self-esteem, and cultural pride focusing on the students' talents, assets, and strengths
• Model positive behavior
• Work with one to three Mentees per semester
• Meet with Mentees at least three times a week
• Work a minimum of 10 hours per week

Peer Mentors Requirements

• Complete an application form
• Have an overall 2.5 grade point average
• Complete at least 30 credit hours
• Be a Sophomore, Junior, or Senior classification
• Be eligible for Federal Work Study (FWSP)
• Be paired up to three Mentees per semester
• Be able to meet with your Mentees at least 2-3 times a week
• Participate in at least one campus organization
• Be committed to the Jump Start Program for at least one academic year (fall and spring semesters)
• Attend all required training, workshops, and activities
• Report all meetings with Mentees to the coordinator bi-weekly and/or monthly