Become a PIP Mentor

Peers In Pride (PIP) Mentor Applications For Spring 2025

Mentor Applications are open now and due Friday, November 1, 2024.

Apply to Be a Mentor

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the peer mentors do?

After completing the Spring training seminar, the PIPs welcome new LGBTQ+ students to campus in the Fall. PIPs are paired with 2-4 incoming students to provide 1-on-1 mentoring and the mentors plan monthly group social events throughout the fall semester.

What does the training involve?

Peer mentors (PIPs) attend a 2.5 hour weekly seminar (required) in the Spring semester. They learn skills related to peer counseling and assisting students in social and academic development. They also learn LGBTQ+ history and meet leaders on campus. The training seminar is required to be a mentor.

What makes a mentor a good fit for this program?

• Self-identification as an LGBTQ+ or ally student.
• Commitment to facilitate the academic, personal, and social development of new LGBTQ+ students.
• Willingness to explore and challenge own belief systems and stereotypes.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a willingness to learn advanced communication skills.
• Willingness to share own experiences for the purpose of self-growth and supporting others.
• Academic responsibility (including readings, discussion, field trips, and journal entries).
• Strong record of meeting obligations (e.g., follow through, timely arrival, regular attendance).
• Has completed at least one semester at SJSU and plans to enroll in the Spring and Fall of 2025.

What benefits do mentors receive?

• Two credits of elective PSYC 184 Directed Reading in the Spring 2025 semester. (optional)
• Form strong connections with other LGBTQ+ identified students.
• Meet and network with faculty and staff who are LGBTQ+ identified or allies.
• Potential letters of recommendations for future jobs or graduate school.
• Training in numerous areas, including: interpersonal communication skills, active listening skills, LGBTQ+ identity development, LGBTQ+ history and political movements, intersectional identities and experiences for LGBTQ+ students (including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion/spirituality, ability, body image, etc.), cross-cultural communication skills, campus and community resources (including field trips), and time management, stress management.
• And Swag!!!!

Where can I learn more?

Consider talking to one of our current PIP mentors to learn more or meet with one of the program coordinators:  Bonnie Sugiyama (bonnie.sugiyama@sjsu.edu) of the PRIDE Center or Stephanie Preston (stephanie.preston@sjsu.edu) of Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)