The International Student Mentor program is designed to assist incoming international students with their transition to UMD. International student mentors provide friendly support as new international students become acquainted with UMD and Duluth. The program is intended to enhance student experiences by bringing together U.S. students, returning international students, and new international students and providing opportunities for intercultural exchange.
Mentees
New international students who join the International Student Mentor Program will be assigned a mentor. This program is free for all new international students. Once you have been matched with a mentor, you will be given each other’s contact information so you can e-mail one another before you even arrive in Duluth.
Check back soon for information about signing up to have a mentor!
Mentors
As a mentor to an international student, you will be assigned an incoming international student to contact before they arrive. You will also meet with your mentee as soon as possible after they arrive in the United States and a few times throughout the semester. If you are interested in joining this program for the Spring 2025 semester, fill out the mentor application form.
There are many benefits to being a mentor to a new international student, including:
- Gaining insight into cultural values and world views
- Acquiring knowledge on cultural adjustment, communication styles and personal leadership
- Building your resume with international experiences
- Having Fun!
Examples of Mentor Duties include:
- Help with getting a UCard and setting up their UMD account
- Help with setting up a bank account
- Tours of the UMD campus and Duluth
- Help buying textbooks
- Using the DTA bus system
- Being a friendly resource for support and socializing
- Meeting informally with your mentee at least 2-3 times during the semester