Mentorship Opportunities

Why Mentorship Matters

Mentorship is a vital resource for first-generation college students as they navigate the challenges of higher education. Having a mentor provides:

  • Guidance on academic and career decisions.
  • Emotional support during transitional moments.
  • Connections to resources and opportunities.

Whether it's learning from experienced faculty and staff or connecting with peers who understand your journey, mentorship can significantly impact your college experience.

If you have any questions about any of our mentorship opportunities please reach out to 1stgen@smu.edu.

 

Peruna Mentors

This program connects first-generation students with SMU faculty and staff who are committed to supporting their success as first-gen allies.

Program features

  • Faculty & staff mentors who are either first-gen graduates or advocates for first-gen students.
  • Flexible mentoring relationships that adapt to your unique needs.
  • Meet at least once a month to connect with your mentor.
  • Mentorship Pairing lasts one semester with opportunity to continue for longer, or connect with a new mentor.

How to get started

  • Visit our Supportive Faculty & Staff page to explore potential mentors
  • Complete the Peruna Mentors Application Form (students only)
    OR
  • Attend one of our mentorship mixers that occur each semester
group of people in pink and yellow t shirts sitting on bench outside in front of trees

Connect Mentorship Program

The Connect Mentorship Program (known by students as Connect) is a year-long mentorship program at SMU.

Connect helps incoming students become effective, successful, and engaged members of SMU through peer mentoring. Upper-Division mentors help incoming students develop personally and academically by introducing them to a variety of resources, learning opportunities, and co-curricular experiences offered on campus.

Learn More About Connect