October 3, 2003

Women's Center Seeks Mentors to Help Returning Students

The Boise State University Women's Center is now accepting applications for the returning women’s mentoring program for the spring semester. The program matches women who are returning to school after an interruption in their education with those who have had the same experience. Research indicates that non-traditional women have one of the highest dropout rates among college students. The goal of the mentoring program is to provide a sense of belonging and connectedness to students that will assist them in staying in school during stressful periods. Mentors can receive one academic credit through an internship program. Credit requires a commitment of 50 hours per semester, or about three hours per week. This includes one all-day training session prior to the start of spring semester and three shorter training sessions throughout the semester. Mentors can also expect to gain problem solving skills, communication skills, listening skills, empathy, peer advising experience and resource/referral skills. Students can apply online at http://womenscenter.boisestate.edu. A complete job description is posted at http://womenscenter.boisestate.edu/involvement. Click on “Get Involved.” Preferred criteria for mentors includes a personal experience as a returning woman student, at least two semesters at Boise State, familiarity with the Boise State community and its resources and a minimum GPA of 2.5. -30- Contact Winnie Tong Women's Center 208 426-4259 Media Contact Sherry Squires communications and marketing 208 426-1563