Peer Mentor Program

Peer Mentor Program

Peer mentoring is a voluntary program in which current students provide guidance and support to incoming students who are new to the Ex’pression community. Peer mentoring offers the opportunity for sharing experiences, viewpoints, personal and academic goals, and emotional support. It is a relationship in which a mentor and a mentee both are able to:

  • Foster a successful, supportive relationship
  • Share their particular expertise in different areas
  • Listen actively to each other’s experiences at Ex’pression
  • Encourage creative thinking in many areas of college life
  • Encourage each other’s life and academic goals

Although peer mentors are there to guide and support new students, both mentor and mentee can learn and grow from each other’s knowledge and experience. Furthermore, a mentor-mentee relationship gives both parties the opportunity to relate to a student he or she may normally not have the opportunity to know.

Why should I request a mentor?

It is always nice to enter a new situation already knowing someone and having some indication about what to expect. A mentor can be that familiar face, and can provide the answers to any questions you may have about the school, your particular program, classes, etc. Having been through many aspects of the program themselves, mentors can give you the student perspective that faculty and staff are unable to provide.

Mentors also can provide a listening ear and advice when you encounter difficulties at school. As you go through your program and face different challenges, your mentor will be there to guide you, provide support, and cheer you on. They are also there to share your accomplishments and positive experiences.

How do I request a mentor?

You should receive an application via email. If for some reason you have not received one, please click on the link below to fill out the application online. Please email the document to Mylani Demas via the email provided below. This short form is used so we can learn a little more about you in order to make an appropriate match. In most cases, you will be given the name and contact information of your Mentor. He/She will also have your information and should contact you before you begin classes at Ex’pression. Mentors are required to check in with you at least once a term, but you should not hesitate to contact them whenever you have questions or are in need of their assistance. After all, that is what they are there for! Of course, we encourage more interaction than once a term, especially if you and your mentor seem to have a lot to offer one another.

Peer Mentor Request Form (Word doc)
Submit your completed application/request to:

Mylani Demas
Student Affairs Coordinator
mylani@expression.edu

V 510.594.6933
F 510.594.6916

Feel free to contact Mylani via phone or email if you have any additional questions or for more information about the peer mentor program.

How do I become a Peer Mentor?

If you are a current student who is in good academic standing at the college with a 3.0 GPA or higher, are already into your core classes and would enjoy helping a new student succeed, you are eligible to become a Peer Mentor. Peer Mentors are current students who are assigned an incoming student to provide guidance and support. This is not a major time commitment – it essentially involves being available to answer questions, and address any concerns the student may have. You are there to give advice about life at Ex’pression, the program, or even living in the Bay Area. The goal of the program is to make the student’s transition into the Ex’pression community a little easier.

Also keep in mind that being a Peer Mentor demonstrates great leadership skills and school involvement, and therefore is a nice way to build your resume. You will also receive a certificate of recognition at graduation.

If you think you might be interested in becoming a Peer Mentor and match our requirements please contact Mylani Demas (see above for contact information) who can provide you with the application and Mentoring handbook.

Peer Mentor Application (Word doc)