The Freshman Mentor Program (FMP) strives to cultivate an environment of student leadership through mentoring that assists freshmen with the transition to college life and fosters a strong sense of belonging through academic engagement, social involvement, and community service.
College presents many challenges, both academically and socially. The Freshman Mentor Program was created to connect incoming students with current UT Dallas students. Mentees who choose to join the Freshman Mentor Program are paired with a student mentor to help ease the transition to UT Dallas, specifically during their first two semesters at the University. Peer mentors at UT Dallas work to support new students in the following three areas: leadership development, academic support and social engagement. In addition to providing personalized support for each mentee, the Freshman Mentor Program hosts service, academic and social events throughout the year to help participants engage with campus and the program more deeply.
Throughout the life of The Freshman Mentor Program, mentees report that their experience strengthened their sense of belonging as a new UT Dallas student. And mentors consistently report that their mentoring opportunity contributed to their sense of legacy at UT Dallas. Mentees and mentors alike historically experience stronger GPA and persistence outcomes than their non-participating peers. These annual trends are markers of the significant impact a program like the Freshman Mentor Program can have in the life of an undergraduate student. Beyond the metrics, however, are the compelling student stories, all of which our program staff have witnessed during the exciting lifetime of this initiative.
Freshman Mentor Program Participant Testimonials
“I love the Freshman Mentor Program and its purpose! As a participant, I truly feel more connected to UTD and am less anxious about my undergrad career at UTD.”
“I had a lot of fun with this program and found it genuinely useful being a first-time college student.”
“I truly felt at home. I learned a lot and am grateful for being a part of this amazing program!”
Donations received during Comets Giving Days will fund the following Freshman Mentor Program initiatives:
- Travel for an increased number of mentors and mentees to attend student leadership conferences.
- Increased student worker staffing to support a growing program.
- Growth of the Student Leadership Team, a group of program participants who act as ambassadors and specialized support for the Freshman Mentor Program
- Cultural and service outings for mentor and mentee participants.
