How do I become a Community Mentor (IMP)? Apply Here

Questions and Answers        

1. Why is MTU asking for community mentors?

Michigan Tech University is experiencing larger numbers of younger international students and a mature community person or family should be able to help the new student feel supported and more quickly “at home”.

2. Would I make a good mentor?

Are you a person who enjoys meeting interesting people, learning about other cultures and sharing yours?

Can you provide a non threatening, respectful environment to trust in a relationship?

If you answered yes to these questions, then you should have what it takes to mentor international students.

3. What time commitments should I expect?

Mentors must be available shortly after the student arrives (most come between 8/15 and 8/31) and you should expect to spend time during this first week helping the student get situated. After this week, you should plan to have some kind of weekly contact during their first semester.

4. What training will be provided?

An hour long session is planned for either Monday, August 13 at 9am or Tuesday, August 14 at 7pm. This workshop is required in order to ensure that everyone has the necessary basic information to assist their student. A campus tour will be arranged for all participants. In addition, a luncheon and debriefing session will be scheduled later in the semester.

5. What are some things mentors can do to help the new student?

The following is a short list that you may add to depending on your creativity and the time limits that both you and your student mentee has available.

a) Meet your student at a designated place (arranged by IPS) within 24 hours of their arrival.
b) Go shopping for basics like bedding, towels, etc.
c) Make sure he/she has had some decent food since they arrived. Many only find junk food.
d) Tour the town to help them find restaurants, shops ( like World Foods ) and services.
e) Invite the student for a home visit to share a meal or for a family activity.
f) Tour the Keweenaw.
g) Invite your student to a special holiday like Thanksgiving.
h) Attend a local or MTU event together.

6. What help and support can I expect from IPS?

IPS will hold a short training workshop to help mentors with frequently asked questions and to provide other important information.

Also, culturegrams will be made available summarizing your student’s country and culture.

Finally, staff will be available to assist with any adjustment issues that arise.

 7. What can you and your family gain from this experience?

Every experience is unique to the individuals involved and what each contributes; however, expanding your view of life on this planet and gaining a new friend are several possibilities. Another is that what you are doing matters to another human being and contributes, one person at a time, to better understanding and peace.

8. How do I become a Community Mentor (IMP)?

Please click on Apply Here and complete the application. After you sign and date it, return it
to:

Michigan Tech University
International programs and Services
131 Administration Building
Houghton, Mi. 49930-1295