What Is the IBIS Mentorship Program?
The LGBTQ Student Center's IBIS Mentorship Program provides students who identify as LGBTQIA+ with on-campus role models who can act as a resource and support system. The program is structured as a cohort based program that also assists students in making connections with the community both on and off campus.
The Goals of the IBIS Mentorship Program
- Ensure the retention and success of undergraduate and graduate students who identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Provide on-campus role models who can serve as a resource and support for students.
- Help students build LGBTQ+ community using a cohort-based model.
- Develop student leaders through skill-building opportunities and service projects.
- Help foster a feeling of belonging and acceptance for LGBTQ+ students.
Who Can Be a Mentee?
All LGBTQ+ identified undergraduate and graduate students!
Who Can Be a Mentor?
Any University of Miami faculty/staff/administrator. Mentors can be LGBTQ+ identified or an ally of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Time Commitments
The duration of the program will occur over one academic year. In order to participate in the IBIS Mentorship Program, both mentors and mentees should be able to attend scheduled group events, outlined at the beginning of the year, in addition to monthly meetings between mentor/mentee on their own time.
What Is the Application Process?
Both mentors and mentees will apply online. Pairings will be matched based on applications and interests. Applicants for the 2023-2024 academic year can reach out to our assistant director, Mariana Gonzalez (mig108@miami.edu) for questions.
Mentor applications are due by the end of the day on Thursday, August 31, 2023.
Mentee applications are due by the end of the day on Friday, September 8, 2023.
Apply Here
What Are the Benefits of Participating?
- Creation of lifelong friendships
- Learn about UM while having fun through team-building excursions
- Opportunity to learn about LGBTQ+ community on and off campus
- Networking and connection to expansive community
- Have fun!
Student Testimonials
"Participating in the mentor's program was one of the most unexpected parts of my senior year at UM, and I am so happy with the experience! When I first learned of the program, I didn't anticipate on joining because I was so used to being a mentor, through 'Cane for a Day, my sorority, tutoring, etc., that I couldn't imagine being a mentee. Vanessa and Dr. Vega pushed me to come to the Mentors Kick-Off, and after talking with Scott, I knew I made the right choice! I was excited to be a part of the program and hoped I would be paired with Scott. I could tell he had so much wisdom to offer me- personally and professionally. I wasn't sure that I had anything to offer in return or what I was supposed to do as a mentee, but somehow it all fell into place! At the beginning of Fall semester, I spoke at the What Matters to U event and was so nervous! Having Scott there- and having his support so early on into the mentorship program- meant a lot to me. Throughout the year, Scott and I met frequently, sometimes getting food and catching up, and other times at larger events like the Out of the Darkness Walk and the Pride Parade meetings. I was so proud to attend the LGBTQ Alumni Reception that Scott planned and see how hard he has been working to support the LGBTQ community. Although the program ended abruptly due to COVID, I am so grateful for the experience and will always look to Scott as an amazing mentor!" - Claudia (Mentee 2019-2020)
