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

Mentor 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 - 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 3-4).

Attend three to four training sessions during the previous spring semester focusing on:

• Analyzing definitions and dimensions of culture and globalization
• 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, and
• Learning inclusive leadership approaches and practices.

Time Commitment

This is a 5 month program that runs mid August - 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-December), depending on activities.

Benefits

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

Earn a letter of reference and certificate in intercultural communication 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.

Eligible students will earn Wellness Passport stamps.

Qualifications

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, RAs are not eligible to apply due to schedule conflicts.

Apply

The application for the 2024-2025 program is due February 23, 2024. Apply Now!

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