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FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Is everyone matched with a mentoring partner?
Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to match everyone who is interested in participating. The pools of available mentors and interested students do not always match perfectly. If you are not matched in your first session, you can be put on a waiting list for the next session or check out our other online communities.
Do mentors and students ever meet face-to-face?
Most of our participants never meet face-to-face. The Online Peer Mentorship Program connects students at a distance to overcome obstacles of time and geography. However, when face-to-face meetings are possible, they can have a positive influence on the mentoring relationship.
How and when will mentors and students communicate?
Consistency in communication is most important. While the program is administered in Blackboard, mentors and their students often find that email, phone or Skype works best. The Regent Apps feature also allows for easy video chat.
Since everyone applies over the Internet, how do you verify an applicant's identity?
Each applicant must provide his or her student ID number and other information. All applications are reviewed and compared to the information contained in students' records to validate their identity.
How will I know what to say?
Once your match is established, both mentors and students will receive a program handbook, which will address initiating and sustaining an online mentoring relationship and will suggest relevant topics for you to discuss with your match.
How much contact should we expect to have with each other?
This is entirely up to each mentor and student pair. We recommend contacting each other at least once a week, and perhaps more frequently in the beginning weeks. Mentors and students commit to spending up to one hour each week communicating with their match, but 15 to 30 minutes each week is likely sufficient.
What if I am matched with someone who does not share my interest(s)?
Exposure to someone with interests that differ from yours is part of growing and learning. Help each other to explore your different interests. There is a good chance you will find similarities even in your differences.
What if I need to drop out of the program?
Please contact the program manager by emailing undergradservices@regent.edu or by calling Student Services at 1.800.722.3680.
