USF Mentor Collective
The USF Mentor Collective program enhances the new first-generation students (mentee) experience by linking them one-on-one with an upper-division first-gen student (mentor). New first-gen students (mentees) in the program will learn what to expect and how to approach challenges to successfully transition to USF.
how it works:
Incoming first-gen students are matched with a upper-division peer mentor based on common interests, backgrounds, academics, and professional aspirations. To get started, mentees and mentors register and complete an online survey to create the best matches according to their interests and experiences.
what do mentors and mentees discuss?
- How do I balance the demands of school, family, responsibilities, and socializing?
- How can I set myself up for success at USF?
- How do I make connections with peers and professionals at USF?
- And more...
Contact:
For any questions regarding the USF Mentor Collective program, please contact Ester Marquez Perez at emarquezperez@usfca.edu.
Mentee Testimonial
Mentor FAQs
Technically, one academic year; however, we encourage you to remain in contact beyond this if you develop a strong relationship with your mentee.
USF undergraduate Peer Mentors are volunteers.
We welcome (and encourage) mentors to include your experience as a mentor on LinkedIn or your resume. As a mentor, you have the chance to develop strong leadership and communication skills.
That’s fine! You always have the option to adjust your involvement. Email help@mentorcollective.org if you want to opt out of the program, reduce the number of students you support, increase the number of students you support, or have questions.
Mentors can take any number of mentees they are interested in. Most mentors take somewhere between 2 and 5 mentees at a time. The most important thing is that you do what feels right for you.
After you register, there are a couple of next steps:
- Fill out a brief matching survey
- Complete your mentor training online (45 minutes)
- Once matched with your mentee(s), you and your mentee(s) can determine what timing works best for you. You are expected to speak with your mentee once a month, but anything more than that is up to the both of you. Most mentors spend between 1 and 3 hours a month per mentee.