Mentor Program

• STEP I – INTEREST FORM

  The interest form is the beginning of the application process to be a Fall 2026 ISP mentor. You MUST complete the Step I Interest Form to be eligible to receive the full written application, which is Step II of the application process. The Step II Application will only be sent to applicants who have completed Step I.

  The interest form is due by 11:59 pm (CT) on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. No interest forms will be accepted after the deadline.

  Interest Form

• STEP II – APPLICATION + SUBMIT A RESUME

  Online application is due by 11:59 pm (CT) on Thursday, January 22, 2026. No applications and resumes will be accepted after the deadline.

  Tip: We take note of which applicants complete this step early.

• STEP III – MENTOR SIMULATION

  This is a simulation of being a mentor that gives you the experience of what to expect, and gives ISP a better understanding of your ability to be responsible and follow through. The simulation will run from January 26 – February 15, 2026.

   

  *The mentor simulation includes a mandatory spring orientation on April 4, 2026.

• ADDITIONAL CRITERIA

  The Selection Committee will review applications according to what degree applicants meet all application criteria. Aside from Steps I-III, additional criteria may be included; such as (the following is subject to change):

  • • Obtain a U.S. permit/driver’s license and Macalester van certification (very important)

      • • All van drivers must be a minimum age of 19, have a valid U.S. driver’s license, and complete the following: driving record check, classroom and video training, and a successful behind-the-wheel driving check. Email Facilities Services at [email protected] with questions.

  • • Complete Bystander Intervention training

  • • Complete a CPR training course

  • • Complete a QPR training course

  • • ISP advisory committee helping other offices, such as Health and Wellness Center

  Email any additional application criteria to [email protected] with proof (picture of your permit etc.) by 11:59 pm (CT) on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

MENTOR APPLICATION FAQ

• What’s my role as a mentor?

  As a mentor, you will play a key role in welcoming new international students during the pre-orientation in August and the first half of the fall semester. As students themselves, mentors can answer questions and give suggestions about life, culture, and academics on and off campus. Mentors work closely with ISP staff to organize informational, cultural, and educational discussions of interest for new students. Other expectations include acting as a resource connector, tour guide, encourager, educator and learner, contributing to a supportive and enriching experience.

• Who are my mentees?

  Each mentor will have about 4 to 6 mentees with a mix of incoming international and domestic students, some of whom will be in the Ametrica program. 

• How much time does this role require weekly?

  During the summer mentor training and PO4IS, you are expected to work full-time for approximately 30 hours per week. The hours a mentor works during the fall semester vary depending on whether you are involved with Ametrica facilitation. You can expect to work at least 5-9 hours a week between meeting every mentee in person, journaling, meeting with Luyen, Molly, or Britt and attending weekly planned meetings. Some weeks may require more hours due to ISP or Ametrica events.

• Is prior experience necessary, or can I learn on the job?

  Prior experience is not required, but it is highly valued. We are looking for students who have experience in mentoring, cross-cultural interactions, or engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds. That said, passion and enthusiasm are just as important! If you’re eager to learn and excited about supporting and connecting with international students, we provide comprehensive training to help you succeed in this role.

• Will the mentor training be remote or in person? What about PO4IS?

  Once you are selected as an ISP mentor for the fall semester, you will attend two key training sessions:

  1. A half-day Mentor Orientation in the spring semester (unpaid).
  2. A week-long Mentor Training in August (paid) before the start of PO4IS.

  All training sessions are required and conducted in person to provide hands-on learning and build team connections.

  PO4IS, which stands for Pre-Orientation for International Students, is a program where mentors actively participate in welcoming and supporting new international students. Responsibilities include greeting students on arrival day, assisting with completing immigration documents, and facilitating introductions to their mentee groups. This is a crucial time for building connections and helping students feel at home.

  *Note that during Mentor Training and PO4IS mentors are expected to work full-time, thus you should make sure there is no other job or activity that will interfere with this period.

• Can both domestic and international students apply?

  Absolutely! We welcome applications from both domestic and international students. This role is ideal for anyone seeking valuable experiences in areas such as cross-cultural communication, one-on-one mentoring, conflict management, leadership, event planning, networking, and more. We encourage you to apply if you’re passionate about building connections with the international student community and supporting others in a diverse environment.

• Can I have a second job while being a mentor?

  Mentors will work until late October/early November. Because of this, your second campus job must not interfere with mentoring. Remember that international students may not exceed 20 hours per week of employment, combining all of your jobs.

• What new opportunities are available for returning mentors?

  Returning mentors have the chance to take on leadership roles as mentor deans, where they will lead mentor squads and play a key role in organizing and coordinating activities. Mentor deans will also be actively involved in the selection and training of new mentors, providing guidance and support to help them succeed in their roles. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced mentors to expand their leadership skills and contribute to the growth of the mentoring program.

• What is Macalester van certification? Am I eligible to apply?

  Drivers at least 19 years of age with a valid license issued by a U.S. state may be eligible to take the van certification training and qualify to drive Macalester vans. ISP would appreciate it if mentors could get their U.S. driver’s licenses and become van certified as they can pick up new students from the airport and bring them to campus, as well as help with other activities that require transportation. Having a valid driver’s license may also be beneficial to you in your personal and future professional life. Van certification courses will be announced in Mac Daily by Facilities Services and/or ISP when available