student mentors pose in a group photo

Become a Mentor

Student mentors help new Cougs navigate life at WSU and find resources and relationships to help them succeed. Match with mentees who share parts of your identity: culture and heritage, LGBTQ+, disabilities, and more. Applications are typically available in late fall.

What's Required

Mentors put in about 6 hours of work each week.

You'll be expected to:

  • Host office hours
  • Keep in contact with mentees
  • Attend a weekly class
  • Attend weekly mentor meetings
  • Help plan and host social activities, retreats, workshops and events

Apply

Apply by Jan. 12

Become a Mentor
Mentor Logs

Why become a mentor?

Gain Leadership Experience

As a mentor, you'll be responsible for checking in with mentees, leading programs, and collaborating with your mentor team. Build important skills that will help get a job after college:

  • Responsibility and initiative
  • Event planning
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Creative problem-solving
  • Cultural competency

Make an Impact

You remember the challenges and fears you experienced during your first year. Offer support and guidance to new Cougs who may be going through similar feelings. Help them navigate things like:

  • Moving away from home and living on their own
  • Meeting people and making friends
  • Adjusting to college coursework
  • Finding the right resources on campus

Earn Class Credit & Scholarship

Mentors will receive unique leadership training and receive a scholarship for the year of participation. You can expect support and professional development from university staff:

  • Enroll in UNIV 497 during the spring semester before serving as mentor. The course will cover leadership and interpersonal skills to prepare you for your role
  • Attend a mentoring retreat in the fall and learn about ethical and professional behavior
  • Monthly in-service seminars will cover mentoring theory, campus resources, and development

Match with a mentor who understands you.

Coming to college is an adjustment. Your mentor understands how your personal identity and community can make that transition harder. Mentors can help with:

  • Moving away from home and living on your own
  • Meeting people and making friends
  • Adjusting to college coursework
  • Finding the right resources on campus

Mentor/Mentee Identities

  • Students with Ethnic Identities:
    • African American
    • Asian American Pacific Islander
    • Chicanx/Latinx
    • Native American
  • LGBTQ+ Students
  • Students with Disabilities
  • Undocumented Students

What to Expect

Communication

Your mentor will reach out to you to provide support and see what you need.

Office Hours

Mentors host regular office hours in student affinity centers where you can check in or hang out.

Workshops

Topics range from academic success, professional development, and career preparation.

Social Activities & Events

Get connected with other Cougs through dinners, de-stress activities, and other fun events.