NIU Logo Northern Illinois University
Latino Resource Center
Division of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

  1. Latino Resource Center
  2. Student Resources
  3. Mentoring and Engaging thru Academic Success (METAS)
  4. Become a Mentor

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 2024-2025.

Mentor Application 

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled full-time, have completed at least one year at NIU by summer 2024 and returning to NIU as an undergraduate for fall 2024.
  • 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 4-5 p.m. for the academic year (fall 2024 and spring 2025).
  • Must commit to five hours per week.
  • Commit to participating in the program for two consecutive semesters (fall 2024 and spring 2025).

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 2024-2025 academic year to help with ongoing mentoring program and services.

Responsibilities

  • Attend the mentor training session (to be scheduled mid/late August)
  • Welcome Latinx freshmen and transfer students to Northern Illinois University.
  • Explain academic opportunities and procedures.
  • Acquaint new students with campus services and building location.
  • Promote a welcoming environment for a diverse student body.
  • Attend all program meetings (mid-August 2024 thru late April 2025 on Tuesdays from 5-6 p.m.).

Questions?

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

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: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Luis Santos-Rivas
lsantosrivas@niu.edu

Elbia Del Llano Menéndez
edelllano1@niu.edu

Follow Us