University aids students through academic mentorship programs

While many students spend the majority of their time studying or participating in extra-curricular activities, others take steps to help fellow students succeed academically.

Two mentorship programs have been established for University of Mississippi students by the Associated Student Body.

The Academic Mentorship Program (AMP) and a program to help improve academic retention are designed to help low-performing students and those who want a little guidance for the future.

Mentors were chosen for the retention program from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College or recommended by professors and administrative officials to aid students who have been placed on academic probation.

“The mentors have been assigned to an EDHE class and assist the instructor and the (graduate assistant),” Sarah Rogers, ASB co-director of student services, said. “The students are required to meet with their mentor at least once and get advice on how to better their grades.”

While students who have been placed on academic probation are required to take the class, those who have been labeled ‘high-risk,’ meaning they either came from a small school or didn’t score high enough on the ACT, may also take it.

The AMP program is designed to place upperclassmen (junior level students or above) with freshmen and sophomores in the same major/field to prepare and inform them for the future.

“It’s designed to give underclassmen a heads-up on what awaits them down the road,” Dennis Pickens, ASB director of academic affairs, said.

Mentors have the ability to share with students their personal experiences with classes and inform them of unique opportunities available.

So far, student mentors have signed up from the accounting and pre-med programs. The School of Applied Sciences is making efforts to get involved as well.

With academic advising approaching, advisors will be informing students on how they can become a part of AMP, as either a mentor or mentee.

Mentors for AMP must be at least a junior-level student, a member of his/her major’s specific honor society (each has its own set of requirements for being accepted) and have completed certain classes required for that major.

Rogers said the relationships between those involved will be as fruitful as the mentor and mentee will allow it to be.

The consulting process will be flexible as it can be done either in person or over the phone at certain times that the mentors will be available. Rogers and Pickens said these programs will be in full swing by Fall 2010.