International Peer Mentor Program
Get support in your first year and sign up for the International Peer Mentor Program (IPMP). This program provides support as you transition into your first year as an international student at University of Idaho. Peer Mentors are committed to helping first-year students navigate campus and community resources. Your peer mentor will also help you adjust to life in Moscow, Idaho, on a social and cultural level by providing meaningful connections for the full academic year.
With the help of your Peer Mentor, you will find a fun and interactive way to build leadership skills and join the community.
Frequently asked questions
Why should I apply to become a mentee?
Coming to University of Idaho can often be both exciting and a bit of an overwhelming experience.
The International Peer Mentor Program intends to help you create a sense of community and assist you as an incoming first-year or transfer student while you adjust to life in Moscow. Participation allows you to fully engage in campus life and forge lasting friendships.
How are mentees paired with Peer Mentors?
As part of the application process, we ask all mentors and mentees what qualities would be important to them in a mentor/mentee pairing. We then do our best to pair prospective mentors and mentees using this information.
Can I be matched with someone from the same country or region of the world?
If a Peer Mentor from your home country is what you prefer, we will try our best to make a match from the same country or region of the world to provide support in your cultural transition.
Can I be matched with someone in the same academic department or program?
The International Peer Mentor Program is dedicated to supporting you as an incoming international student in your cultural transition and academic success.
Although we try to match graduate students with fellow graduate students and likewise for undergraduates, we cannot guarantee that your mentor will be from your same academic department and program.
If you are interested in peer support specific to your academic department or program, please consult with your academic advisor to see what may be available.
Why should I apply to become a Peer Mentor?
Peer Mentors will be able to grow their mentorship, intercultural communication and leadership skills.
Around the world, many graduate schools and employers seek students and employees who demonstrate the ability to collaborate and mentor people from diverse backgrounds. IPMP is a wonderful way to build those skills while giving back to the international community.
What are the requirements to apply to become a Peer Mentor?
The selection of mentors will be based on merit, availability and via an online application submission.
Eligibility
- Must be a currently enrolled, full-time University of Idaho student.
- Must have completed at least one semester at the University of Idaho.
- Peer Mentors must be in good standing (maintain at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA)
- Must display professionalism.
- Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Responsibilities
- Peer Mentors must provide mentees with information regarding support services for student success at the University of Idaho.
- Peer Mentors will contact their assigned mentees before their mentee arrives via email.
- Peer Mentors and mentees must meet for at least an hour each month throughout their commitment to the program for a full year.
- Peer Mentors must volunteer at the International Student Orientation once a semester.
- Peer Mentors must volunteer at key events hosted by the International Programs Office like the Welcome Back Picnic and Cruise the World with your mentee.
- Peer Mentors must visit a campus resource or related event with their mentee (i.e., Tutoring, SI-PASS, Academic Coaching, Writing Center, Career Services, department meeting, professional development meeting)
- Peer Mentors must attend one social event with their mentee each semester.
- Peer Mentors must be involved in one International Ambassador project or event each semester.
- Peer Mentors must be actively involved in the International Student Organization or any other international or cultural club.
- Peer Mentors must help new students with their immigration check-in at the IPO for 1.5 hours at the beginning of the Fall semester.
- Peer Mentors must attend at least one Pre-Arrival Webinar each semester.
- All participants must submit Monthly Connectivity Reports
- Peer Mentors must receive positive feedback from mentee through the Monthly Connectivity Report
As a Peer Mentor, how many mentees should I expect to be assigned?
Each Peer Mentor gets to decide how many mentees they would like to be assigned. We recommend no more than four mentees to one Peer Mentor.
What do I do if my mentor or mentee is unresponsive or decides to no longer participate in the program?
We understand that there are often unforeseen circumstances that may cause participants to withdraw from the program. If this happens, please email: ipo-events@uidaho.edu.
What is the difference between the International Peer Mentor Program and the International Ambassador Program?
The International Ambassadors oversee IPMP and are responsible for checking in with a number of Peer Mentors. They ensure that the Peer Mentors are equipped to share campus resources and provide support to their mentees.
The International Ambassadors are also responsible for representing the international community at various events and programs across the campus and local community, and work on an impact project each semester.
International Ambassadors also receive an award for their involvement. To apply to be an International Ambassador the following year, you are required to be involved in the Peer Mentor program.
After participating in the International Peer Mentor Program, what is next? What other leadership opportunities are available on campus?
We hope that you will continue participating in the mentor program. You might also consider applying for:
- An office position for the International Student Organization or any other club
- Cruise the World Planning Committee
- International Ambassador Program
- ASUI Senate