Student mentors: Their priorities are in the right place!
For some new students, university is a stepping stone. For others, it is the means to their dream career. Regardless of their motivation, students will find a sympathetic ear and helpful advice through the University of Ottawa's network of student mentors, who work hard every day to enhance the university experience of our students.
Located strategically across the campus, the mentoring centres support newcomers in their studies. Mentors work with the students to develop tools and skills that will serve the students for many years to come.
The Student Academic Success Service (SASS) celebrates the work and dedication of its mentors each year by awarding the CIBC Mentorship Scholarship. The 2009 recipients are Mike Brown, Common Law Section; Caroline Lévesque, Department of History; Kyli O'Connor, School of Psychology; and Chantal Gosselin, School of Human Kinetics.
For these mentors, participating in activities outside the classroom and finding a healthy balance between social activities and school work allow them to get the most out of their university experience. As Caroline Lévesque puts it, "Studies are very important. But 20 years from now, what you'll remember most are the friends you made and the experiences you had here…so it is important not to spend all your time hitting the books!"
The University's mentorship program is one of the largest in Canada. And while the program is a great help to mentored students, it makes a real difference in the lives of student mentors as well.
"The excitement and enthusiasm shown by the students in my first-year support group always remind me how lucky I am to be studying at the best law school in Canada," says Mike Brown.
By Dominic Boutin
Published: October 2009