What is a graduate mentor?
A graduate mentor at Portland State University provides support to undergraduate students taking interdisciplinary courses known as Sophomore Inquiry (SINQ) classes. As a peer mentor, graduate students from a variety of academic backgrounds work alongside a faculty member to deliver a quality academic experience, while providing social and emotional support to students. Graduate mentors attend a course with students twice a week, then provide meaningful academic and interpersonal experiences within weekly 50- minute small group mentoring sessions. The mentor serves as a bridge between the faculty member and students, encouraging communication and team building between all members of the learning community.