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Home First Generation Student Success Leadership Opportunities Become a Peer Educator

Become an OFGSS Peer Educator!

Peer Educators play a critical role in the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs offered by the Office of First Generation Student Success (OFGSS). These student leaders serve in a number of capacities, including student coordinators, program assistants, and peer mentors.

OFGSS is currently accepting applications for PEER MENTORS for the 2020-21 academic year.

A mentor is an experienced first-gen upper-class student at the U of M who will mentor a small group of first-year students. Mentors are committed to supporting the holistic development of first-gen Tigers and preparing them for a successful transition to the university. Mentors help mentees succeed by sharing their personal stories and experiences, as well as challenging them to be active participants in their educational journey and to gain an increased level of self-awareness. Therefore, mentors may serve as a coach, advocate, and role model for their mentees.

PEER MENTOR REQUIREMENTS

In order to be an OFGSS Peer Mentor you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a first-gen student and enrolled as a full-time student at the U of M
  • Be a Sophomore, Junior, Senior, or Graduate student during the 2020-2021 Academic Year
  • Possess a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Be able to commit to a full academic year (fall and spring semesters)
  • Good standing with the Office of Student Accountability
  • Possess the ability to aid new students in their transition to college
  • Demonstrate strong leadership and oral communication skills
  • Knowledge or interest in helping create a campus environment that celebrates diversity
  • Ability to motivate peers
  • Understanding of campus issues for first-gen students
  • Must be able to attend all OFGSS training and team meetings (Dates TBD)

TIME COMMITMENT

OFGSS Peer Mentors earn $10.00/hour for up to 10 hours/week. Peer Mentors are expected to engage in a number of activities throughout the academic year, including:

  • Participation in training (online and in person) throughout the year
  • Meeting once a month in person with the OFGSS Director (20-30 minutes)
  • Checking-in with their mentees in-person or virtually (email, text, Zoom, or phone)
  • Attend team meetings and program events that will include all mentors and mentees

APPLY TO BECOME AN OFGSS PEER MENTOR

To apply to become an OFGSS Peer Mentor, submit the online application.

Review of applications will begin Monday, July 20, 2020, and continue until all positions are filled.