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GLBTA Mentor Program
About
The GLBTA Mentor Program seeks to provide an opportunity for GLBTA students to access support and resources and to attain personal growth; to give an opportunity for mentors to give back to their community; to provide support and growth opportunities mentors and mentees may not find otherwise; to build community among participating mentors; and to encourage community involvement.
Apply
If you would like to be a mentor or mentee in this program, download a Mentor Application (Word | PDF) or a Mentee Application (Word | PDF).
Fill out one of the application forms and send it back to Owen Marciano. You can also send it to:
GLBTA Programs Office
C/O Owen Marciano
138 Klaeber Court
320 16th Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQ
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How is the U of M GLBTA Mentor Program different from other mentor programs or GLBTA programs?
The GLBTA Mentor Program is designed to build intergenerational community for GLBTA people and to reduce feelings of isolation in those communities. The program differs from other programs in that the relationships do not revolve around a preset goal but allows participants to set their own goals.
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Is this only open to GLBT-identified people? How can allies participate?
Allies can certainly participate! In a homophobic society and culture, heterosexual allies to GLBT communities are vital to the struggle for GLBT rights. Allies will likely be paired with allies (though not always), and can use the program as an opportunity to learn from each other.
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What is a mentor/mentee relationship like in this program?
The mentor/mentee relationship is largely informal and self-directed. The pair's success is directly related to the amount of energy and commitment each puts into it.
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When does the mentor/mentee relationship begin and end?
The relationship begins on October 13, 2007, at the kickoff event and training, where pairs will meet each other and set their goals. The program officially ends on April 16, 2008, with a closing dinner, but the relationship can last as long as both parties want.
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How do you make a match?
Matches are made primarily based on each applicant's expectations and requests.
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What will mentors and mentees do after the are matched?
The pairs set their own goals and are self-directed, so what they will do is up to them. The program provides ample opportunities for the pairs to socialize and get to know each other. Pairs will then form an intentional, personal relationship where each participant will have opportunities to share experiences, learn, and grow.
Mentor FAQ
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Who can be a mentor?
Any U of M staff, faculty, administrator, alumni, or community member who cares about helping students and is willing to invest in a mentoring relationship with a student.
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Why might I want to be a mentor?
It's an opportunity not only to give back to your community but also to learn more about yourself and to grow within a community of other mentors. Some past mentors have said:
"The program is inspiring and a community. I feel blessed to be a part of this."
"Exciting. Enlightening."
"It was a wonderful learning experience."
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What kind of time commitment is required?
About 6 - 8 hours per month. This includes a monthly meeting with other mentors, one social opportunity through the program, and at least one meeting with your mentee.
Mentee FAQ
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Who can be a mentee?
Any undergraduate or graduate student from a Twin Cities college or university who feels they could benefit from a focused mentoring relationship in their life.
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Why might I want to be mentored?
Having a mentor could be a great way to find support and understanding, and to get connected with a community of GLBTA people. Your mentor is someone you can talk to about anything you're comfortable sharing. It's also an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your community. Some past mentees have said:
"It was good to have someone who had been through what I'm going through now."
"It is a safe and informative environment in which to learn things from other GLBTA people that might help in the life journey."
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What kind of time commitment is required?
About 4 - 6 hours per month. This includes at least one meeting with your mentor, and one social opportunity through the program.
