Global Mentorship Program

Overview

The Global Mentorship Program assists new international students in making a successful academic and personal transition to Springfield College, and helps them acquire cultural knowledge, make new friendships, and understand the campus resources available to them. The program also provides a way for our student body to develop the skills and knowledge needed to ensure a supportive and inclusive campus for international students, lead in culturally diverse environments, and thrive in our increasingly interconnected world.

Benefits of Becoming a Global Mentor

Personal Development: You will interact with people from all over the world, learn a lot about yourself and the impact of cultural characteristics, and learn about other cultures and experiences.

Professional Development: You will have the chance to develop leadership, intercultural communication, and professional skills while gaining valuable experience that will help you stand out in your career.

Plan and Participate in Fun Events: You will explore Springfield, plan excursions in the local area, and participate in cultural events.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include mentoring new international students. You will facilitate their academic, social, and cultural integration into Springfield College and the United States.

Conduct weekly check-ins with mentees (August through December) and organize occasional events to foster connections, including lunch gatherings, study groups, International Student Welcome activities, etc.

Facilitate and participate in the August International Student Welcome (ISW) Pre-Orientation Program and ISW events during the fall term (typically three to four days).

Attend a team training session at the end of spring term and training prior to ISW in August focusing on:

• Analyzing definitions and dimensions of culture
• Examining one’s own cultural background, experiences, and self-knowledge
• Gaining an understanding of common cultural barriers and challenges
• Developing intercultural communication skills and strategies
• Learning inclusive leadership approaches and practices

Time Commitment

This is a five-month program that runs mid-August through December and requires early arrival to campus in August for training and ISW Pre-orientation Program. Participation in an initial training session the semester before is also required.

One-to-three hours per week during the mentorship period (August through December), depending on activities.

Benefits

This is a voluntary leadership role that provides mentors with training and practice in intercultural competence and citizen diplomacy.

Mentors will receive a one-time $500 international leadership award from the Dr. Frank Fu International Fund.

Receive a letter of reference highlighting intercultural skills from the International Center.

Access to a customized workshop with the Career Center to identify global competencies and understand the benefits of intercultural skills in the workplace.

Qualifications

You must:

• Be a current first-year, sophomore, or junior in good standing with the College at the time of application
• Have an interest in relating to diverse groups of people and demonstrate a commitment to self-reflection and promoting intercultural understanding and global engagement
• Possess knowledge regarding campus and community resources to share with mentees

Unfortunately, resident assistants are not eligible to apply due to schedule conflicts.

Apply

Applications for the upcoming academic year open in March 2026. Apply Now

For more information, contact the International Center staff at internationalcenter@springfield.edu