First Year Experience

Prospective Mentors

What is required of an FYE Peer Mentor?

• All FYE peer mentors participate in FYE 301: Mentor to the First Year Experience, a three-credit graded course that meets over three semesters (spring, summer and fall). This practicum course introduces student development theory and practice to support first-year and students in transition.
• Additionally, all FYE mentors co-teach a FYE 101 course with a faculty partner. Mentors assist their faculty partner by planning and leading academic discussions and explorations.

How are the FYE Peer Mentors chosen?

• Prospective mentors are invited to attend information sessions each fall semester and apply between November and December for the next academic year. Interested candidates apply online, provide professional references and agree to a review of their judicial and academic standing. FYE reviews all applications, conducts a review of references and each candidate’s background prior to scheduling interviews. If selected, candidates complete a group process and/or interview and must demonstrate both the commitment and ability to assist others.

How Do I Apply?

• To be a FYE peer mentor, you must apply almost a full year in advance (e.g., to be a mentor during your junior year, you must apply when you are a sophomore).
• Complete the online FYE Peer Mentor Application (click here) by December 1st of each year.

What are the benefits of being an FYE Peer Mentor?

• There are many benefits of serving as a FYE Peer Mentor. Mentors are given the opportunity to experience classes on the instructional side by planning lessons and teaching classes.
• Working with faculty and other peer mentors builds professional networks for the future.
• Assisting first-year students with a smoother transition into college is rewarding in itself.
• Mentors generally report increased knowledge of resources to support their success, engage in research, have a greater understanding of who they are and who they aspire to be, and connect with professionals who can assist in the transition to graduate school or a professional career upon graduation.

When asked about their experiences with FYE, mentors reported…

• “My mentoring experience was amazing. I have been involved on campus throughout my time at CMU, and nothing has been as beneficial as my mentoring experience. I had countless opportunities to help others and work with students through their first year. Working one-on-one with each student was the best part because I got a chance to know all of my students individually. I grew so much throughout my mentoring experience by stepping out of the box and doing things I wouldn't normally do. Because of this program, I feel much more confident in myself and therefore feel more confident in helping others to succeed.” –Alison Reynolds
• “Becoming an FYE mentor helped make me what I am today and confirm my career choice of teaching. It was very rewarding to share the knowledge and experiences I've gained in my time at Central to students just starting to make their mark. The knowledge, acceptance, and respect that I got in return from them and my faculty partner was affirming. If I have one regret, it would be that I wish I had become a mentor earlier in my college career.” –Claudia Witt
• “Mentoring to me, meant that I was able to connect with students and their needs during their first year and beyond. I have been able to keep in contact with the students of my class and continue to aid them in their college experience. Laughing and learning with class made this experience worthwhile and enjoyable.” –Nathan Tallman
• “My experience as an FYE mentor was incredible. The students had as much of an impact on me as I had on them. I have become more involved in the program and the behind the scenes action that I have decided on a career in higher education where I can continue to assist in the success of college students.” –Jamie Guigar