First-Generation Peer Mentoring - FIRST

• The First-Generation Initiative for Resources, Support and Transition (FIRST) exists to build community, advance support systems and foster a sense of belonging amongst first-generation college students at University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).

  In this program, first-generation students in their second year or above come together from across the campus community to serve as peer mentors. These paid positions present an excellent opportunity to embody leadership in practice, and include paid training and flexible time commitments. Following the application and training processes, mentors are matched to other first-generation students within the various schools and programs at UMB. Throughout the semester, mentors serve as friendly guides as their mentees acquaint themselves to the UMB experience and all of the resources it has to offer. 

  Aside from regular mentor-mentee meetings, the program also hosts a series of first-generation social events throughout the year. These events allow students in the community to meet and mingle with first-generation students from all of the many schools and academic programs at UMB! Be sure to keep an eye on the events calendar so you don't miss the next opportunity to meet a new colleague, make a new friend, and expand both your personal and professional networks. 

   

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who can participate in the program? 

  • The The First-Generation Initiative for Resources, Support and Transition (FIRST) program is open to all first-generation students at UMB.  Mentors must have completed at least one year at the university. Mentees may be at any stage in their journey at UMB, but the program is tailored to those who are new to campus.

  How much are mentors paid? 

  • This a non-Federal Work Study position and students are paid hourly. The starting wage for mentors is $15 per hour.

  What is the time commitment like? 

  • We understand that UMB students are very busy, and so the time commitment that mentors choose to take on can be flexible! The minimum number of hours worked per week is five, with a maximum of ten. 

  Who can I contact to learn more? 

  • Feel free to email Kayla Kozak, Peer Mentor Program Specialist, at kkozak@umaryland.edu to inquire further or to set up a time to meet! 

• What can I expect to get out of the program? 

  • Mentors participate in paid training that includes professional identity development, counseling in the peer context, outreach and engagement strategies, and caseload management. There is even the opportunity to share these skills with your LinkedIn network in the form of credential badges!
  • Mentees benefit by expanding their support system to not only include a likeminded peer of similar experiences, but the broader network of university resources that their mentor is trained to understand and refer as necessary.
  • Mentors and mentees alike have the opportunity to participate in community building and networking opportunities that pull students from across campus in the first campus-wide program of its kind.