INTERNATIONAL STUDENT MENTOR PROGRAM

School of Graduate Studies and Research &

Office of International Education and Development (OIED)

Fall 2020-Spring 2021

What is the International Student Mentor Program?

Using an intercultural leadership development approach, this program seeks to provide a welcoming environment and supportive foundation to assist degree-seeking international students in a successful personal and academic transition into their first year at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Mission

The Mission of the International Student Mentor Program supports newly enrolled or admitted international students at FAMU, in Tallahassee, FL. In this dynamic program, mentors and mentees spend time together in virtual or in-person meetings, group gatherings, and social activities around the city. Involvement in the program offers a fun way for participants to develop leadership skills and foster community among international students at FAMU.

About the Mentor Program

All participants are encouraged to commit to five (5) meetings, and workshops during the semester: an initial meeting in September, workshops in September, October, and final meeting in November. See schedule below:

International Student Mentor Program

Meetings and Workshops Fall 2020

NOTE: the agenda may be subject to change

 
In addition to the virtual meetings and workshops, mentors and mentees are also expected to meet or interact virtually at least once a month on their own. Students choose to meet either on or off-campus to grab a coffee, share a meal, or even social activity, keeping in mind the social distancing guidelines.

How does the International Mentor Program Work?

Applicants must apply and be selected yearly and are eligible to serve a maximum of two years.

Applicants to become mentors must meet the following qualifications:

• Be a current F-1 degree-seeking international student at Florida A&M University with a minimum of one academic year experience at FAMU.
• Have a 3.0 overall cumulative grade point average (without being rounded) at the time of application and throughout your duration as an International Mentor.
• Be positive, enthusiastic, supportive, and capable of learning about and engaging different topics/issues on many levels.
• The deadline to apply is August 28, 2020 for the 2020-21 academic year.

1. BE A MENTOR

Applications for the Fall 2020 semester are now OPEN. APPLY NOW

What are the responsibilities of a mentor?

An international student mentor must commit to supporting their mentees throughout the first year in achieving a successful personal and academic adjustment to college life. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

•  Assist your incoming Mentees as they adjust to life at FAMU and in Tallahassee, FL (e.g. offering advice on cultural adjustment, academics, campus resources, and the wider city). 
• Attend and assist with Fall and Spring International Student Orientation Sessions.
• Serve as student ambassadors for the School of Graduate Studies and Research during the following events:

·      Attend all five (5) meetings, and workshops during the semester. 

·      New Graduate Student Orientation (Fall and Spring)

·      Graduate Student Appreciation Week

·      During the Dean’s Fireside Chat Sessions

·      Facilitate and coordinate meetings with your mentees at least once a month.

·      Keeping in touch with one’s mentees on a weekly basis either via phone, email, or social media.

·      Meet with a designated program coordinator at least once during the semester to check-in.

·      Participating in the social activities organized by the International Education Office.

·      Demonstrating a commitment to continue one’s own intercultural competence development and improving mentoring skills.

·      Becoming more knowledgeable about Florida A&M University.

·      Explaining how systems, policies, and procedures work at the University.

·      Introducing mentees to resources on campus that will support their needs.

·      Engaging in frequent reflection about assistance outcomes with one’s mentees.

·      Submit the International Student Mentor Program Evaluation at the end of the semester.

·      Attend the FAMU International Education Week in September 2020.

What will Students gain from being an International Mentor?

• A letter of accommodation and certificate from the Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate Education and the Director of the Office of International Education and Development.
• The opportunity to engage with Faculty, and Staff.
• Satisfaction from assisting with the personal and academic adjustment of other international students.
• Intercultural leadership development.
• Enhanced networking abilities and communication skills.

2. BE A MENTEE

Are you interested in becoming a mentee?

Please send an email to:

Ms. Paula Sofia Gomez, M.B.A.

International Admissions Coordinator

Office of International Education and Development

E: paula.gomez@famu.edu

P: 1 850-599-3562

Dr. Reginald K. Ellis

Assistant Dean for the School of Graduate Studies and Research & Associate Professor

of History and African American Studies

E: reginald.ellis@famu.edu

P: 850-561-2849

As a mentee, you are responsible for:

• Committing to meeting with your mentor at least once a month.
• Attending all monthly big-group meetings.
• Maintaining regular contact with your mentor.