“Supporting Success” Mentor Training Module I

1. “Supporting Success”Mentor TrainingModule I

2. The best minute you spend is the one you invest in people.” - Blanchard and Johnson “

3. Module I Overview Program Description Program Outcomes The Role of the Mentor Required Touchpoints What To Do/ What To Avoid Confidentiality Communication: Effective Listening Common Adjustment Issues Campus Services Self Reflection References

4. Program Description

5. Program Description “Mentors/coaches will support the transition of first year university students throughout first year. Current student success research encourages the use of mentors who function as coaches to support various facets of the student experience. Many aspects of post secondary transition can be identified as risk factors which could potentially impact student persistence and success. The Supporting Success Program is designed to mitigate many of the aspects of transition that could impede student success.”

6. Learning Outcomes

7. Mentors will… Increase knowledge of campus resources provided through training Enhance interpersonal skills Enhance self awareness Enhance oral and communication skills Enhance collaboration skills Enhance leadership development skills Experience intellectual growth

8. Mentees will… Develop knowledge of campus resources through discussion with peers Develop an understanding of academic/classroom expectations Understand the challenges of first semester through discussion with peers Develop an appreciation of time management required for academic success through discussion with peers and explore to campus resources Learn about campus culture and extra curricular opportunities from peers Develop a connection to campus community through peers interactions

9. The Role of the Mentor

10. The Role of the Mentor Mentors will meet regularly (please refer to the Required Touchpoints schedule) with students to provide information, positive reinforcement, referrals and engage in conversation to ascertain the student’s progress through the year. Mentors will work collaboratively with professional staff from Student Development and Support to provide accurate, timely information and to ensure smooth referrals to campus resources which would best support the student’s needs.

11. The Role of the Mentor Mentor Meetings Initial contact will take place via email once the new student has confirmed interest in being matched with a mentor/coach. During Welcome Week a face to face meeting should take place. Meetings should take place at a mutually convenient time and place for the mentor and student. Face to face meetings are essential for the first few weeks to develop the relationship and establish expectations for both parties. As the semester progresses, students may contact mentor by phone or email if face to face meetings are not required/preferred.

12. The Role of the Mentor Sample Expectations What should the mentee expect from the mentor? To maintain regular contact To offer insight about the first-year university experience To maintain confidentiality To provide support in all areas of the student experience What should the mentor expect from the mentee? To return phone calls or emails To update their contact information if it changes To keep scheduled meetings or communicate with the mentor if they need to cancel

13. The Role of the Mentor The Initial Face to Face Meeting Your first contact with the student is crucial to starting a successful mentoring relationship. Prior to the meeting, recall how you felt when you were a new student. What fears, questions, emotions did you have? Try to imagine yourself in your mentees shoes. Determine the location and arrive early. Introduce yourself, shake hands, and smile. Sit comfortably to facilitate open communication.

14. The Role of the Mentor The Initial Face to Face Meeting Briefly discuss your role. E.g. “I will help you transition to the university by providing information, support, and guidance.” Ask the student to tell you about his/herself. Point out things you have in common E.g. Program, hometown, interests etc.. Ask about specific courses the student is taking and how things are progressing. Determine if they have met and exchanged contact information with other students in their classes.

15. The Role of the Mentor The Initial Face to Face Meeting Bring up reading requirements and stress the importance of keeping up. Talk about resources such as Campus Life Line and S.T.E.P.S. that help support student success. Ask about any questions they may have. Do not give inaccurate information. If you are unsure, ask your professional contact and relay the correct information back to the student. Exchange contact information. Establish time and location of next meeting.

16. The Role of the Mentor Subsequent Meetings Inquire as to how things are going Questions to consider asking: What is the most interesting thing you learned this week? What do you find your learning strengths to be? Have you taken the opportunity to meet with your professors outside of class? Do you have TAs or GAs in your classes? If so, do you know how to contact them for support?

17. The Role of the Mentor Subsequent Meetings Questions to consider asking: Have you completed any tests/exams/assignments? If so, how do you feel about the result? Have you made any new friends or connections on campus? Are you experiencing any stress? Academic, personal, or work related? Do you have long term goals associated with your education? Have you used the Forge? Library?

18. The Role of the Mentor Required Touchpoints Weekly in September, starting with Welcome Week After first mid-term or semester test After Thanksgiving break Early November Mid-November Just prior to start of final exams After Christmas break Prior to Study Week Early to mid-March Prior to final exams Ongoing contact as required by student

19. The Role of the Mentor Reporting: Mentors will provide a summary of their contacts and immediately report to staff any concerns they may have about the student’s progress or transition difficulties. Reports can be submitted by email. Mentors will be asked to meet with a staff member as a group on occasion to receive additional training or information, discuss their experiences and offer recommendations. Each mentor will be assigned 1-2 students.

20. What To Do

21. What To Do Put your mentee first To make the difference in your mentees life, you have to make a personal commitment to stay involved. Approach your mentee on a basis of mutual respect You can develop trust by showing respect for your mentee and their right to make their own choices. Mentors do not want to create dependency but to facilitate self-responsibility, encourage self-direction and development of problem solving skills so that mentees can begin to take ownership of their successes. Encourage short term goal-setting – this process will help your mentee gain a sense of control.

22. What To Do Take time to get to know your mentee You may not feel connected to your mentee after your first meeting. Be patient and recognize that developing a relationship will take time. Try and have a positive influence on your mentee It is critical that you serve as a role model for your mentee. Think about a role model in your life. What qualities do they have that you emulate? Assist with problem solving Empathize with their feelings but do not display pity. Help them look for realistic solutions and sensible alternatives to overcoming barriers.

23. What To Do Be yourself Are you self-aware? Confident? Caring ? Committed? These qualities will be an assert to you and your mentee. Be sure to share these great parts of yourself. Share common experiences with your mentee Learning for the mentee is most likely to take place when there is a consistency between what you suggest and what you do yourself. Let them see the way you approach the choices, challenges, and opportunities that shape your experience.

24. What To Avoid

25. What To Avoid Generalizing “Everyone hates Professor ________” is a generalization of the feelings of other students. You do not really know what other students think, you only know what you think. “I found Professor ________’s quizzes quite challenging. Reviewing regularly helped me do well”.” Feeling discouraged Your mentee may resist at first. He or she may not recognize the help you have to offer. Being persistent and genuine may help.

26. What To Avoid Blaming students If a student misses a meeting, do not get angry with them. You may want to express your concern for them and restate the goal of the meetings. Work together to schedule another meeting, and follow-up with the student. Making negative comments Remember that you are a role model and an ambassador of the university. You should always be professional in your actions and speech. Share your experiences in a positive manner. If you found a course highly challenging, talk about the ways you adjusted your study methods to succeed.

27. What To Avoid Being passive Do not wait for the student to contact you if they have a problem. Be proactive. If you sense an issue that needs to be addressed, ask them about it and follow-up. Be sure to speak with your Professional contact if you are concerned. Telling your mentee what to do You may find it helpful to inform, advise or suggest to the student a certain action or strategy but the final decision should be theirs.

28. Confidentiality

29. Confidentiality As a mentor, you will encounter confidential information, such as students’ academic standing, personal difficulties, and/or contact information. You are required to keep this information confidential. You may only discuss these details with your Professional staff contact. You will be required to review and sign a confidentiality agreement prior to beginning your role. Violation of this agreement will cause your participation in the program to be terminated.

30. Communicating Effectively

31. Communicating Effectively How you communicate with your mentee will shape your relationship. Listening is the most essential component of communication. Tips for effective listening: Pay attention to the speaker. Look at them as you listen. Don’t think ahead about your own comments. Listen until the speaker is finished and then take a moment to collect your thoughts. Do not interrupt.

32. Communicating Effectively Tips for effective listening: Be open and avoid jumping to conclusions. Do not try to change what the speaker is feeling – try to understand it. Check in with the speaker to be sure you are following what he/she is trying to say. Paraphrase what you heard and repeat it back to the speaker. Ask for clarification when needed. Use “I” statements, rather than “you” statements when speaking for yourself.

33. Common Adjustment Issues

34. Common Adjustment Issues New and unfamiliar environment Exploring newfound independence Academic demands differ significantly from High School Seeking out and managing new relationships/ friendships Unacquainted with campus culture, procedures and services Ineffective time management and study techniques Difficulty handling stress and maintaining health and wellness Financial concerns and budgeting

35. Campus Services

36. Aboriginal Education Centre Provides Aboriginal students with a culturally supportive environment Lunches, gatherings, orientation events and an indigenous library Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/aec (519)253-3000 Ext. 3481 turtleisland@uwindsor.ca

37. Academic Writing Centre To engage students in meaningful English language development to realize academic success Provides writing support to students Peer writers (in Leddy Library) Research paper advice Effective writing style tips Classroom presentations Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/awc (519)253-3000 Ext. 3405 awc@uwindsor.ca

38. Advising Centre Assists students in selecting and organizing a successful education plan to: Add, drop or withdraw from a course Understand and discuss students’ degree audit Discuss problems impacting academic performance Review academic progress Discuss changing or choosing majors Review degree/education plans Clarify academic policies and procedures Seek appropriate referrals Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/advising (519)253-3000 Ext. 1414 advising@uwindsor.ca

39. Awards and Financial Aid Accommodation of financial need The office explains the procedural and policy guidelines of the OSAP program, assists students during the application process, distributes funds, and handles appeals. Distribution of information on the various awards available for undergraduate study Work Study Part-time work is available on campus to those students who qualify for participation. Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/awards (519)253-3000 Ext. 3300 award1@uwindsor.ca

40. Cashier’s Office Current fee schedule listed at www.uwindsor.ca/cashiers Tuition fees vary depending on program – approximately $2800.00 -$3400.00 per semester including compulsory fees (program dependent) Residence/meal plan fees and text book costs are extra Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/cashiers (519)253-3000 Ext. 3307 cashiers@uwindsor.ca

41. Centre for Career Education Part-time job postings Resume assistance Interview preparation One-on-one services and mock interviews Co-op program ICAN website www.uwindsor.ca/ican Interactive Career Activities Navigator Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/cce (519)253-3000 Ext. 3895

42. Computer Centre (Information Technology Services –ITS) Help Desk –for answering tech questions CLEW –online learning management system Computing Labs Consulting services Spam filter and information Student employment opportunities Campus wireless internet service Email, internet and printing service (UwinCARD) Software depot –purchase software at discount Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/its (519)253-3000 Ext. 4440

43. Educational Development Centre S.T.E.P.S. - www.uwindsor.ca/steps Presentation series to help student’s improve their learning and study skills Campus Life Line - www.uwindsor.ca/lifeline Support for a wide range of student needs and concerns including health and wellness, learning, personal, campus opportunities , and academic Student development opportunities Orientation and Windsor Welcome Week SOS - Volunteer and leadership opportunities Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/edc (519)253-3000 Ext. 3287 sdevelop@uwindsor.ca

44. International Student Centre Assists international students with their transition to Canada Domestic students welcome to attend events and develop cultural awareness & understanding Over 10% of UWindsor students are studying here from another country ISC sponsors Wednesday lunch time movies for all Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/cisc (519)253-3000 Ext. 3938 isc@uwindsor.ca

45. Office of the Registrar Registration related information: Admissions Transcripts Grades Course offerings Calendars Course changes and withdrawals Most information available online through SIS Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/registrar (519)253-3000 Ext. 3315 registrar@uwindsor.ca

46. Leddy Library Library tours and orientation workshops Collection consists of over 3 million items Resources and study tools include: Access to library via web Electronic resources, books, videos, CDs, etc. Reference help centre, live library chat, Twitter Course reserve materials Networked computers and workstations Quiet study areas for groups & individuals Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/leddy (519)253-3000 Ext. 3402

47. St. Denis Centre Access to The Forge fitness centre, pool, indoor track, basketball courts First Aid and CPR certification, personal training specialist, fitness instructor specialist Fitness and aqua fitness classes, sport instruction Dance, intramural sports Student employment opportunities Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/stdenis (519)253-3000 Ext. 2428

48. Student Counselling Centre Provides free short-term, one-on-one counselling for personal or emotional difficulties E.g. Depression, relationship or family problems, adjustment issues, anxiety Help students deal with stress Make referrals for longer term care All services are free and confidential Professional counsellers licensed by the province Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/scc (519)253-3000 Ext. 4616 scc@uwindsor.ca

49. Student Disability Services Accommodations for students with documented disabilities State of the art technological hardware and software Special FREE transition program for students with learning disabilities BUILD visit www.uwindsor.ca/build Contact office as soon as possible to provide required documentation and ensure accommodation are ready when needed ‘Adapting to University’ support for students with mental illness Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/disability (519)253-3000 Ext. 3288 disability@uwindsor.ca

50. Student Health Services On-Campus Health Clinic Acute care, minor surgery, allergy injections, lab tests (blood work), travel immunization, TB shots Health education classes Smoking cessation, safe sex, nutrition, counselling etc. Contact information www.uwindsor.ca/health (519) 973-7002 CAW Student Centre, Room 242 Student Centre Pharmacy: Accepts all health plans Chiroworks: Chiropractors and massage therapy Campus Dental Centre: Full dental service