Seattle University Science & Engineering
Peer Mentoring Program
Regular Office Hours ~ ENGR 300
Tuesday ~ 12:30-2:30pm
Wednesday & Thursday ~ 1:30-2:30pm
Peer Mentors 2012-2013
Pictured from left to right:
Sydney Dautel (Jr, Biochemistry), Shannon Simpson (Sr, Environmental Science),
Nicholas Johnson (Sr, General Science w/engineering & math specializations), Marissa Marcotte (Sr, Biology)
Program History
The Science & Engineering Peer Mentor Program began in the General Science department at Seattle University in 2008. The program was initially conceived to provide new pre-science (major undeclared) students a “friendly contact” in the College of Science and Engineering by pairing them with an upper-division science major. Our goal was to assist new students in their acculturation to Seattle University and to a science major, thereby increasing student success and retention. The program launched with 5 mentors and approximately 35 first-year students majoring in General Science, Environmental Science, and pre-science. In 2009, the program expanded to also include pre-engineering students.
As students across the College expressed interest in being mentored, the program model changed to allow first-year and new transfer students from any S&E major to opt in to the program. In fall 2010, 70 new students (30% of the incoming freshman class) requested a mentor. This year’s 8 mentors are juniors and seniors majoring in biology, chemistry, general science, math, physics, and mechanical engineering. In addition to the wealth of experience they bring to the program, the mentors receive training on learning styles, time management, common “new student transition issues” and more. They are equipped to help students connect with resources across campus, to assist with course planning and registration, and they’re empathetic listeners.
The Peer Mentor Program has become an exceptional campus resource, providing successful strategies for science majors. The mentors will work with academic advisors as part of the student’s support team and they work with the college Advising Center to provide assistance during registration week. Other successful program events include study groups, moving nights, learning strategies workshops, and preparation for advising and registration. One program highlight is the “Tip of the Week” email that shares advice the mentors wish they had known when they were first-year students.
Program goals
Our goals are to help new students transition to Seattle University, to increase their connection to the College of Science & Engineering, and to be a resource to all of the students and faculty of the College.
For more information:
Email sepeermentor@seattleu.edu
