SLD 121A Student Mentor TRIO/CAMP

Lecture Hours: 1
Lab Hours: 3
Credits: 2

Develops necessary skills to be an effective mentor. Prepares mentors to serve as role models to encourage and influence the personal, educational and professional development of first generation college students in TRiO or CAMP.

Prerequisite: Must pass a criminal background check if working with middle or high school students.
Repeatable: Course may be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.
Student Learning Outcomes:

List the different roles of a mentor.
Identify characteristics of an effective mentor.
Discuss transitional stages from middle school to high school and from high school to college.
Identify and apply the five steps of the problem-solving process.
Explain the benefits of mentoring for the mentor and the mentee.
Explain how program staff can support students in TRiO or CAMP.

Content Outline

Understanding Your Role
- What is “mentoring”?
- Understanding perceived barriers to first generation college students
- Benefits of mentoring
Communication
- Active listening skills
- Interpersonal skills and role modeling
- Understanding how different age groups learn
- Communication with program staff
- Confidentiality and FERPA
Diversity
- Background stories and their relevance
- Socio-economic status and how it affects communication
- Family involvement in students’ academic pursuit
Resources
- Academic advisors for college access programs
- Student Services for college students
- Community resources
- How to identify and pursue scholarships
Problem Solving
- Define a problem
- Meet with program academic advisor
- Identify solutions and/or referrals
- Agree on a plan
- Case notes and follow-up
Assessments
- Feedback to program staff
- Mentor evaluations