Strong and effective mentoring networks are among the most important components of a student’s academic and professional success. Faculty Mentoring Initiatives (FMI) is as a program created by Mentoring Services and Leadership Development (MSLD) and administered by the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Based on gender, major, interests, and expectations, the program pairs IU faculty, staff, alumni, and local community leaders with sophomores, juniors, and seniors to give students the guidance and support they need to be successful throughout their college journey and beyond. Mentors and protégés determine when, where, how often, and how long they will meet during the academic year via email, phone, in-person, or at scheduled program-wide events, as well as at large group activities with campus partners.
Faculty Mentoring Initiatives
Program Goals
- To challenge students intellectually, direct them to helpful campus resources and, in some cases, offer opportunities to participate in outside research opportunities.
- To help students achieve a sense of engagement and belonging at IUB.
- To expose students to new ideas and perspectives.
- To enhance student retention and persistence to graduation
Become a Mentor
Many people decide to become mentors because they’ve experienced firsthand the benefits of having been mentored. There are many attributes that make for a successful mentor. Good mentors are willing to make a time commitment and listen and ask questions. They are responsive, enthusiastic, and have a genuine interest in sharing skills, knowledge, and expertise.
Remember, mentoring isn’t a one-way process. It’s a two-way street. Being a mentor has the potential to change your life and that of your mentee. Best of all, both of you will be creating memories that may last a lifetime.
"When you've been around the university for a long time, there are things that we know that aren't necessarily written down or easy for students to know about…To create an open conversation with students and see them be successful is priceless."
Kathy Finley, Senior Lecturer, Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, IUB
Request a Mentor (IUB sophomores, juniors, seniors):
When you are matched with a mentor, you will receive one-on-one expert advice, support, and encouragement. In addition, your mentor will provide guidance that connects your present academic experiences with your future life plans.
Request a Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Community Leaders Mentor“Freshman year was so full of huge adjustments. I didn't know what I wanted to do, I didn't know where I wanted to be, so Professor Finley’s mentorship came at the perfect time."
Nancy Kanu, Class of 2019