M.O.S.A.I.C.

The MOSAIC Mentorship Program promotes social interaction among faculty, staff and students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Frequent contact with mentors in and out of classes is an established factor in student motivation, involvement and successful graduation. The program strives to provide ethnic and culturally diverse students with a mentor/supporter/friend on campus who will help motivate, guide and listen to them while they grow and develop as students and individuals. A concurrent objective is to share diversity among staff, faculty and administrators through direct interaction with students.

Being a mentee is a valuable opportunity that most students do not take advantage of. Who better to help guide you through college than someone who has gone through it themselves and is familiar with the campus? Your mentor is here for you and can offer a lot to help you succeed. After making contact with your mentor, every effort should be made to honor the meetings you have committed to attend. Time is just as valuable for mentors as it is for students. Please make it a priority to contact them and reschedule as early as possible if a conflict should arise. You are encouraged to discuss your values and career interests and to bring questions, concerns, and problems to the attention of your mentor for discussion.

We encourage mentors to meet with their mentees at least twice a month. Although mentees have requested a mentor, they are often uncomfortable and hesitate to make the initial contact so we encourage our mentors to take the initiative in collaborating and arranging the initial meeting. Ideally, two meetings a month could be arranged as an "in person" contact. One meeting a month can include a meal with your mentee's. After a successful "in person" relationship is achieved, busy schedules can be accommodated, by phone calls and emails. Making time to meet with and engage your mentee will allow you the opportunity to stay informed of their academic and personal development, while advising, and providing general guidance.

If you ever have any questions or concerns regarding the mentorship program or need any assistants during the pairing process, please feel free to contact our office.

Welcoming receptions, social activities, and recognition banquets are sponsored throughout the year in order to facilitate a sense of larger community among both student and faculty participants. Moreover, students periodically sponsor peer tutoring opportunities.