Peer Mentors

Bay State College’s Peer Mentor program is comprised of a diverse group of student leaders who are prepared to recognize and respond to the needs of students in transition. The team works to increase first-year students’ sense of belonging within the Bay State College community by providing academic and social resources relevant specifically to new students’ transition into the college experience and subsequent success at Bay State College.

The Peer Mentor program is designed to

• Reduce the likelihood that students will receive inaccurate information and ensure students are receiving information that is relevant and timely
• Forge individual relationships and help first-year students acclimate to their program group and the Bay State College community
• Ensure that students are referred to the right resources
• Increase retention of first-year students by ensuring students are not “lost” at Bay State College
• Increase a sense of community and connection to peers
• Help students cope with change

What do the Peer Mentors do?

• Each Peer Mentor is responsible for a group of 10-15 first year students, traditionally organized by Academic Program
• Connect with each student no less than two (2) times per month
• Assist with the planning and implementation of FYE/New Student Orientation, Registration Days, etc.
• Meet bi-weekly with your assigned Peer Mentor Program advisor
• Participate in bi-annual training and one “all-staff” peer mentor meeting/in-service per month
• Assist in facilitating workshops with Student Affairs staff as needed

Interested in becoming a peer mentor?

Peer Mentor Selection Criteria:

• Minimum of 2 semesters at Bay State College
• No less than a 2.5 GPA
• Complete application (listing 2 references)
• Recommendation from full-time faculty member
• Interview with staff member/selection committee
• Leadership experience/potential
• Participation in Group Process
• Ability to practice confidentiality