Become a Mentor

Objectives and Expectations

  • Help your mentee adjust to college life
  • Serve as a positive role model for your mentee
  • Encourage involvement in student activities and organizations
  • Provide information on NIU services and resources
  • Share experiences and knowledge you have gained as a student at NIU
  • Be involved in informational sessions, training workshops and socials
  • Help your mentee with homework or refer to tutoring service

Application Process (Spring/Summer only)

We are now accepting applications for 2022-2023.

Mentor Application 

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled full-time, have completed at least one year at NIU by summer 2022 and returning to NIU as an undergraduate for fall 2022.
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing (minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5).
  • Desire to enhance interpersonal, communication and leadership skills
  • Interest in working with Latina/o/x freshmen or transfer students.
  • Awareness and appreciation of all forms of diversity.
  • Positive attitude and enthusiasm for NIU.
  • Must attend all program meetings on Tuesdays from 5-6 p.m. for the academic year (fall 2022 and spring 2023).
  • Must commit to five hours per week.
  • Commit to participating in the program for two consecutive semesters (fall 2022 and spring 2023).

Benefits

  • Gain significant leadership experience while enhancing employment marketability and career opportunities.
  • Develop professional relationships with faculty, staff and other students.
  • Increase skills in effective interpersonal communication and time management.
  • Potential internship opportunities with METAS peer mentoring program during the 2022-2023 academic year to help with ongoing mentoring program and services.

Responsibilities

  • Welcome Latinx freshmen to Northern Illinois University.
  • Explain academic opportunities and procedures.
  • Acquaint new students with campus services and building location.s
  • Promote a welcoming environment for a diverse student body.
  • Attend all mentor training sessions (in late August/early September).
  • Attend all program meetings (mid-August 2022 thru late April 2023 on Tuesdays from 5-6 p.m.).

Questions?

For more information, please contact edelllano1@niu.edu.


Meet Our Mentors

  • Alma Uriostegui
  • Beiya Sarmiento
  • Cinthya Aguilar
  • Marisol Franco

Contact Us

515 Garden Road
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1986

Hours of Operation

Fall/Spring

Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday by appointment

Luis Santos-Rivas
lsantosrivas@niu.edu
Elbia Del Llano Menéndez
edelllano1@niu.edu
Lisa Vargen
lvargen@niu.edu

Follow Us