Peer Mentoring Program

The MIPS Peer Mentoring Program (PMP) is a peer-to-peer model designed to facilitate the successful transition and retention of incoming first-year students of color. Our program serves to create a community among students of color and to assist students academically, emotionally and socially. Through participation in the program, first year students can expect individual and personalized attention and support from their mentor during the academic year.

Our Peer Mentors provide guidance and support to enhance the first-year experience in the following ways:

• Providing a hospitable environment for first year students of color through relationship building
• Providing personal perspectives and support on how to cope with student life issues
• Sharing strategies and referrals to enhance academic success
• Providing information or referral to appropriate services
• Exploring and supporting goals and career interests
• Connecting first year students of color to resources through a network of faculty, staff, and fellow students
• Connecting to leadership opportunities and support on and off campus
• Exploring social and cultural identity
• Serving as a liaison between the Mentee and the MIPS Office

MIPS is seeking first-year students who are enthusiastic and are dedicated to ensuring they are successful as they navigate the college experience. We are excited to match you with a student leader to mentor you through your first year experience and the program. As a mentee, you will be paired up with a mentor to connect you to a campus network of resources, faculty, staff, and fellow students.

After matching, mentors and mentees are expected to meet virtually or in person at least twice a month — and you are certainly welcome to meet more often! We encourage you to interact with each other in-person, through virtual Zoom/Google Hangouts, social media, emails, texts, or phone calls.

Who can apply to be a mentee?

• BIPOC Students beginning their first term at St. Catherine University in fall 2022 or spring 2023, or incoming transfer students
• BIPOC Students already admitted to St. Catherine University or currently in the process of admission
• BIPOC Students able to make a one-year commitment to the MIPS Peer Mentoring Program

2022-2023 mentee applications are now open!

• Step 1: View our peer mentors profiles
• Step 2. Apply Online - Mentee Application

Questions: email mipspmp@stkate.edu. 

The MIPS Peer Mentor Program is designed to offer student leaders the skills necessary to maximize their leadership capabilities and academic successes through formal, relevant and meaningful ongoing training.

Who can apply to be a mentor?

• Peer Mentors are undergraduate students (sophomores, juniors, and seniors)
• Mentors must be currently enrolled in the undergraduate College for Women
• Mentors must exhibit the ability to lead, learn, and work effectively with a diverse group of mentors and mentees
• Mentors must exhibit the ability to empathize and be willing to provide academic, career, and personal support to an incoming student
• Mentors must desire and interest in helping new students adjust and feel welcomed to the University
• Mentors must have a commitment to investing the time necessary to be an effective mentor

Applications will Reopen in Spring of 2022!

Applicant Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled for the full 2021-2022 academic year in the College for Women program.
• Able to attend bi-weekly mentor meetings.
• Exhibit the ability to lead, learn, and work effectively with a diverse group of mentors and mentees.
• Ability to be reliable, flexible, and responsible.

Steps to apply for Peer Mentor Program Mentor Position:

• Submit a résumé.
• Fill out Peer Mentor Application & Questionnaire.
• The interview committee will evaluate your answers and will inform you their decision or if you need to go through the interview process.

To apply or ask questions about the position, please email mipspmp@stkate.edu.