Next Gen Pathways: Mentor
The Next Gen Pathways program aims to support first-year graduate students by helping them navigate the complexities of grad school and the hidden curriculum. Our mentors are dedicated to guiding new students as they find their footing within the UCI community, connect with peers who have faced similar challenges, and ultimately feel a sense of belonging.
Who Should Sign Up:
We are looking for alumni, faculty, and advanced graduate students (second year and beyond) who are interested in mentoring first-year graduate students. If you want to help new students transition smoothly into graduate school, you’d be a fantastic addition to our team! Join us in making a meaningful impact and fostering a supportive community at UCI.
Time Commitment:
While we do not require a specific number of hours, we recommend mentors meet or check in with their mentees at least once a month. Participation in Next Gen Pathways events is also encouraged to maximize the benefits of the program.
What you’ll gain:
A Mentee with Similar Life Experiences: Our custom matching surveys ensure mentors and mentees are paired based on shared experiences and needs.
Training and Resources: Learn how to become a more effective mentor through our training sessions and access to resources.
Networking and Social Events: Engage in opportunities to connect with others in the program through various events.
Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to enhance your mentoring skills and support your mentee.
Access to Resources: Utilize institution-specific resources and discussion guides available on the participant dashboard via the Mentor Collective website to support your mentee effectively.
Join Next Gen Pathways and make a meaningful impact on a new graduate student’s journey while enriching your own experience at UCI.
How to Apply:
Use your UCInetID to sign up through Mentor Collective here: https://uci.mentorcollective.org/register/uci-grad/mentor
*Mentors will receive training on how to use the Mentor Collective site and how to communicate with your mentee*
Deadline to sign up:
There is no deadline to sign up, you can do so at anytime during the academic year. However, it’s recommended to sign up by July so you can get matched early to aid students during the summer transition and start being a part of our events beginning in August!
*Matches will begin to be made/sent out by August 1st*
Next Gen Pathways Upcoming Events:
Our kick off event is currently in the works, check back in at a later date to see the event date and time!
Graduate Student Events to Check Out:
Graduate students, make sure you create your UCI CampusGroups account and follow Graduate Division to keep up to date with all the amazing networking, social, and professional development opportunities we offer! It’s a great resource for both you and your mentee to review and see how to get involved and best utilize your campus resources.
Contact
Questions? Email Rosie Victor at rvictor@uci.edu or Karen Friedlander at k.friedlander@uci.edu