DMC PEER MENTORING PROGRAM

Campus Resources | Support Network | Holistic Wellness

Peer mentors group picture peer mentors group picture peer mentors group picture

Purpose

The Dowdy Multicultural Center Peer Mentoring Program is dedicated to supporting multicultural students through their first academic year. Students will learn about campus resources, establish a support network that includes students, faculty, and staff, and create goals for holistic success with the guidance of established student leaders and DMC staff. Students will be matched with student leader after registering.

History

Established in 1994, the Mentoring Program in the Multicultural Center was formed to help multicultural students persist and graduate from West Chester University. The program was implemented by Jerome (Skip) Hutson and Rochelle Peterson. At that time the Mentoring Program only consisted of two components: the mentees (first-year students) and volunteer, faculty/staff mentors. In 1996, Dr. Kendrick Mickens joined the staff and a third component was added, the peer mentor component. This addition provided a successful academic peer liaison and role model for the first-year participates, and has become integral to the success of the program.

How It Works

Mentees will be matched with a mentor for the academic year after registering for the program.

As a result of participating in the Peer Mentoring Program, mentees will be able to:

  • Identify campus resources
  • Identify individuals to serve as a support network
  • Create goals related to their holistic wellness

Mentees must commit to attending:

  • 1 hour Mentoring meetings 2 times per month
  • 1 Dowdy Multicultural Center sponsored event per month
  • Programs, events, and personalized appointments hosted by campus resources led by students, staff, and faculty
  • Welcoming Induction event
  • End of fall semester celebration
  • End of year celebration

Learn More!

To learn more about our Peer Mentoring Program and events held throughout the year, you can follow us @dowdymc_wcu or stay connected with us via email at Multicultural@wcupa.edu. You can also subscribe to our newsletter and join our email list! Our platforms provide the latest updates on upcoming events, trainings, and opportunities designed to empower and support WCU students.

Mentees Benefits

Mentors and program staff will guide you to:

  • Increase awareness of campus resources
  • Build a support network of students, staff, and faculty
  • Create goals for holistic wellness

Application Process

1. Fill out the application below.
Note: Those who enroll will need to attend an information session and choose their desired level of participation in the program.

2024-2025 Enrollment Deadline: Sunday, September 15, 2024

Become a Mentee

Peer Mentee Description

Starting at a new university is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. To support you in this transition, we invite you to join The Dowdy Multicultural Center Peer Mentoring Program for First-Year and Transfer students. This program is designed to help you connect with mentors of color who can offer guidance, support, and resources to help you thrive socially and academically at WCU.

How It Works: 
There are 2 levels for the Peer Mentoring Program. 

GOLD LEVEL: You will be matched with a student leader and 2 other mentees. With the guidance of your mentor, you will attend various activities hosted by the DMC and campus resources.

PURPLE LEVEL: You will participate in programs only hosted by the Peer Mentoring Program. You will have the opportunity to meet student leaders at the programs, but you will not receive individual guidance. 

Time Commitment: 
We ask that you allocate at least 4-5 hours per month to the Mentoring Program for the entirety of the academic year. The more you are able to participate the more you will gain from the program. 

Peer Mentors Benefits

  • Opportunity to impact first year students.
  • Increase awareness of campus resources.
  • Serve as a resource.
  • Practice communication and time management skills.
  • Enhance leadership and coaching skills.

Application Process

  1. Fill out the application below. Note: We recommend you type your answer on a separate document and paste your answers
  2. Upload resume and cover letter within the application. Interview may be requested.

2024-2025 Application Deadline: Friday, September 6, 2024 

Peer Mentor Description

Paid 10 Hour Weekly Commitment:
The following will be accomplished during Mentors weekly commitment:

  • Mentee Meetings
  • Completing Office Hours 
  • Fostering Campus Engagement 

Must be available for virtual training and in-person monthly mentor developments days. 

Eligibility:

  • Credits: Earned 24 credits or more by the time application is submitted.
  • Academic Standing: Must be in good academic standing at WCU. Must have a minimum of a 2.75 cumulative grade point average (GPA) when applying and must maintain this GPA or better. Failure to maintain the GPA requirements will result in probation or termination of the Peer Mentor position.
  • Leadership: Must have prior leadership experience and/or engaged in leadership activities on-campus/off-campus (community service, campus involvement, conference attendance, etc.).
  • Student Conduct: Applicants who have any student conduct sanctions (or incomplete sanctions) will not be considered.
  •  Hours: Must be available for 40 hours per month.
  • Attend Peer Mentor Training dates.

Expectations:

  • Commit to Fall and Spring semesters (one academic year).
  • All reports and deadlines should be met in a timely manner.
  • Peer Mentors will be evaluated twice in the Fall semester and twice in the Spring semester to determine continued status.
  • Abide by all local, state, and federal laws, as well as all University rules and regulations.
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