Scholar's Mentorship Program

Scholar's Mentorship Program

Mentoring Advice

Peer Mentor

Having a peer mentor should be like having a big brother, sister, or cousin on campus who can assist you to phase into college life more rapidly and smoothly. The two of you should plan your meetings around your regular activities so that they are mutually beneficial and do not consume time that you need for your studies. Below are some suggestions.
Go together or meet:

  1. In the office of your Faculty/Staff mentor;
  2. At Hasbrouck Dining Hall for lunch or dinner;
  3. At the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholar's Mentorship Program Educational Center (Shango A-3) to use a computer or learn a new computer program;
  4. At the Sojourner Truth Library to study;
  5. At the meeting of a student organization;
  6. At a campus lecture or cultural activity;
  7. In your room or your peer mentor's room for a brief conversation;
  8. In town in New Paltz for a movie;
  9. In town in New Paltz to shop for food or supplies;
  10. At the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholar's Mentorship Program Educational Center (Shango A-3) to work on your course schedule or weekly activities schedule.

Faculty/Staff Mentor

As always, these meetings may be formal or informal.  They may be held during office hours, at a social or cultural event, a restaurant, or in a home.  The purpose is to provide time for Faculty/Staff Mentors and Protégés to become more familiar with each other and for each mentor to offer any needed advice or assistance.

Below are some helpful questions to ask your Faculty/Staff Mentor to help you get better acquainted. 

  1. What teams have you participated on? Sports? Work?
  2. What talents and skills do you bring to the team?
  3. What recreational activities / hobbies do you most enjoy?
  4. If you could have anything you wanted for supper, what would be on the menu?
  5. What has made the biggest positive impact on you?
  6. What is your understanding of this position?
  7. What is one of the most creative things you have ever done?
  8. How do you like college?
  9. What advice do you have for me as I begin a college career?
  10. What do you feel were the best or the worst experiences?
  11. Why have you decided to work as a college professor or administrator?
  12. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?