Peer Mentor

Mission:

The Peer Mentor program is designed to aid incoming freshmen in a smooth transition from the high school to college environment. Peer mentors serve as experienced guides, advisors, confidantes and friends.

Additional goals of the peer mentor program are to:

• Promote academic excellence
• Encourage the development of student relationships with other students and staff
• Advance knowledge about campus services
• Help establish career and educational goals
• Provide consistent, reliable sources of support and inspiration

Admission and Training:

Students interesting in becoming peer mentors must meet the following requirements:

• Students who have finished two or more semesters
• GPA of 2.5 or above
• Submission of a written application
• Interview with the Peer Mentor coordinator and current peer mentors

Upon acceptance into the Peer Mentor program, all applicants must complete a mandatory three-day summer workshop. This comprehensive training session is designed to introduce Peer Mentors to effective communication skills. The workshop also emphasizes the development of group leadership skills including planning group activities, dealing with diversity and successful conflict resolution.

Curriculum:

College 101 classes consist of a variety of topics and activities designed to provide freshmen with a comprehensive overview of college and the C.W. Post Campus. Some areas of discussion include:

• The value of a college education
• Personal development
• Developing critical thinking skills
• Cultural Diversity/Relationships
• Career planning
• Encouraging campus involvement

Program Benefits:

The Peer Mentor program and College 101 provide many benefits to both the mentor and student.

Through leadership in a College 101 class, peer mentors gain self-pride in knowing that they are making a difference by helping others. The title of Peer Mentor is an excellent addition to a college resume as well. Aside from a generous scholarship, mentors also have the option of taking a three-credit education course as an elective.

For incoming freshmen, College 101 provides a valuable introduction to campus resources. The class helps freshmen develop the skills essential for a successful college career. College 101 also provides an atmosphere in which students are able to make new friends.

Contact:

For more information concerning the Peer Mentor Program or College 101, please contact:

Chad Coates
Associate Director, Learning Support Center
Post Hall, Lower Level
C.W. Post Campus
Long Island University
720 Northern Blvd
Brookville, New York 11548
516-299-3057
chad.coates@liu.edu