LAS CRUCES – New Mexico State University will launch a new systemwide mentorship program this fall aimed at strengthening students’ sense of belonging and connecting undergraduate students with faculty, staff and administrators who can help guide them through college and prepare for their futures.
The President’s Mentorship Program will pair participating students with mentors for an academic year. Mentors will answer questions, connect students with university resources and help students align their academic interests with potential career opportunities.
NMSU President Valerio Ferme said his own experience as an undergraduate demonstrated how even a relatively brief interaction with a mentor can change a student’s direction.
Ferme recalled struggling during the fall semester of his senior year after losing his motivation to attend medical school and becoming uncertain about what he wanted to do with his education.
That changed following a conversation with one of his biology professors. Ferme said the professor recognized both his accomplishments on the rowing team and his academic growth, despite Ferme’s own concerns about his performance in the class.
“Just those few words changed my outlook and refocused me academically… a small gesture of mentoring supported me to where I am now,” Ferme said.
NMSU officials say creating those types of connections is at the heart of the new program. Students who feel connected to their campus community can be better positioned to persist academically and complete their degrees, while mentorship can also help students navigate the academic, personal and professional opportunities available during college.
Mentors will work with up to five students for one academic year. During the program’s inaugural year, participants will attend a group meeting at the beginning and end of each semester. Mentors will also meet individually with each of their students once a month.
Mentors will receive training and support for their roles. The program will begin with a mentoring best-practices kickoff and reception from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21.
The pilot program is a collaborative initiative involving the NMSU Office of the President, Office of the Provost, Faculty Senate leadership and Division of Student Enrollment and Success.
“NMSU is committed to enhancing the student experience for all Aggies,” Vice President for Student Enrollment and Success Tony Marin said. “Our faculty, staff and administrators are uniquely positioned to provide meaningful guidance and mentorship that not only supports students during their time at NMSU but also prepares and empowers them for success throughout their professional journey.”
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications News – John@bravomic.com