College of DuPage supports students with Inclusive Excellence Peer Mentoring Program

The Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion at College of DuPage will connect new and continuing students this fall through the Inclusive Excellence Peer Mentoring Program, which encourages incoming students to embrace life in college.

The program matches first-year students with continuing students who serve as mentors to help enhance academic excellence and belonging at COD, develop a path of success, and increase knowledge about resources at the college.

Mentors and mentees are encouraged to maintain their relationships throughout the academic year.

The program is open to all COD students and applications currently are being accepted.

David Swope, manager of student diversity and inclusion, said students benefit from training, workshops, guest speakers, and an interactive support network that provides for an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Mentor and mentee assignments are limited to a first-come basis each year and trained mentors who participate will receive a stipend award.

"The mentee benefits from this experience because of the 'belonging' factor that comes from knowing they have peer support on campus who provides wise insight, academic encouragement, and help with life skills," he said. "The mentor benefits through their service, which improves their leadership skills while making them more aware of their own academic and social achievements."

Learn more about the Inclusive Excellence Peer Mentoring Program at www.cod.edu/student_life/resources/csdi/mentoring.aspx.