Building connections through a chemistry mentorship program at Carroll College

CHED 1341

Stacy L. Gates, sgates@cc.edu, Ashley D. LaMontagna, alamonta@cc.edu, and Michael D. Schuder, mschuder@cc.edu. Department of Chemistry, Carroll College, 212 Kilgour Hall, 119 E. College Ave., Waukesha, WI 53186
The SAACS of Carroll College, in efforts to (1) aid in the academic, emotional and social adjustment of first year students, (2) actively involve upper-class students, (3) build a sense of community and (4) increase membership and participation in the organization has designed and implemented a Chemistry Peer Mentoring Program. Upper level chemistry majors were selected based on leadership skills, involvement in the organization and desire to mentor incoming freshmen and new members. Mentors were then assigned 1-2 mentees. They met approximately once a week, came together to social events and meetings, and were available to listen to mentee's questions. Mentors also provided guidance and directed mentees to resources as needed. The mentees gained a sense of connectedness with the organization and positive relationships with their mentors. The mentors built leadership skills and important connections to the college, organization and mentees.