A First-Year Studies (FYS) Peer Mentor is an undergraduate student attending the University of Tampa who assists in weekly UTampa classes and other duties assigned by UTampa advisors and the associate director of First-Year Studies. The FYS Peer Mentor, under the direction and supervision of First-Year Studies, works towards the academic and social growth of first-year and transfer students along with a UTampa instructor.
Requirements
- 3.0 GPA or above
- Two recommendation forms from faculty
- Complete an interview with the FYS Associate Director
- Take the UTAMPA 250: Peer Leadership course (this is only required during the first semester as a mentor)
- Opportunity to conduct one first-year studies class per semester to build public speaking and leadership skills.
Responsibilities
Peer mentors offer invaluable academic and social support to first-year students, attending all class sessions for their assigned first-year studies course. They play a key role in helping students navigate both their academic and personal transitions, sharing essential campus resources to ensure their success. With a deep understanding of on-campus and off-campus involvement opportunities, peer mentors actively communicate events and upcoming activities. They are also instrumental in organizing out-of-classroom experiences that foster connections between first-year students, our UTampa community, and the vibrant city of Tampa.
Positive Feedback
Peer Mentor Reviews
See what First-Year instructors have to say about their peer mentors:
- “Raha truly cares about the success of the first-year students. She goes out of her way to make sure the students are well taken care of both inside and outside of class. She would bring the students medicine when they felt sick.” — Speros Margetis, Professor of Finance
- “I wanted to give a shoutout to Michael Young. He is one of the new Peer Mentors and on Thursday last week, he called me about helping a student. He handled the situation with grace and even walked the student over to the counseling center. He went above and beyond for the student.” — Megan Lopez, Lecturer I, First-Year Studies
- “Anais goes above and beyond each week for her students. She brainstorms creative ice breakers, sends reminders before assignments are due, maintains accessibility to her students and maintains a positive, upbeat attitude. Anais is concerned that the students are learning and that she can be the resource and mentor they need.” — Ian McGinnity, Director of Community Engagement, Office of Student Leadership and Engagement
