Mentor program benefits students and college
Education students have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience through the senior mentor program, sponsored by the College of Education. The senior mentor program recognizes students’ academic achievement and leadership qualities where student mentors host visitors to the college, including TCU’s Parents Council and Monday at TCU guests.
“The program began 14 or 15 years ago when the dean, Doug Simpson, saw the need to have students serve as ambassadors for the College of Education,” said Dale Young, director of student teaching and career services for the College of Education. “Visitors to the college would much rather hear from students than faculty.”
The students, typically seniors, serve in the program for a year. Education faculty nominate students every spring. The students must have strong leadership qualities and a minimum 3.25 GPA. From the list of nominees, 12 to 20 are chosen and announced at the college’s award ceremony in the spring.
Student mentors also handle registration and pass out programs at functions hosted by the College. Students from all areas of the curriculum serve as student mentors, which is helpful when prospective students have questions. The time commitment to the program varies and students can share duties based on when events fit into their schedules.
“I’ve been involved with the program from the beginning, so I know how much work students put into it,” said Young. “There’s a high level of pride the senior mentors take. It’s a valuable program for everyone involved.”
Serving as a senior mentor is not only a valuable experience for students; it is an excellent addition to a résumé.
“Personnel directors really like to see this type of leadership experience,” Young continued. “It shows that students can excel in and out of the classroom and be good leaders.”
Student mentors also help fellow College of Education students when they have questions about courses and professors in various colleges on campus.
“They’re a great sounding board for their peers,” Young said.
The Campaign for TCU College of Education
For those who love TCU and are passionate about its future, the coming years provide unprecedented opportunities. The $250 million Campaign for TCU is a momentous effort that is creating this university’s future. As part of The Campaign for TCU, the College of Education has set campaign goals that reflect a commitment to transform education at all levels. Investing in the College of Education and TCU will yield advances in teaching and learning, enhance educator preparation and help address the most critical issues and concerns in education.
College of Education Campaign Goals
Undergraduate Support $5 million
Endowed Scholarships
International Student Teaching
Endowment
Endowed funds for undergraduate program support
Graduate/Doctoral Support $5 million
Endowed fellowships Endowed scholarships Endowed funds for graduate program support
Academic Program Support & Research $10 million
Alice S. Neeley Special Education Institute Endowment
Center for Urban Education Endowment
KinderFrogs School Endowment
Starpoint School Endowment
Faculty Support $10 million
Endowed chairs, professorships and faculty fellowships
TOTAL $30 million
Support the College of Education:
your gift DOES makes a difference
The College of Education Annual Fund provides alumni, friends, parents, faculty, and staff every opportunity to support the College of Education. Every annual unrestricted gift, regardless of size, makes a real difference and provides operating budget support that directly benefits every student and faculty member. If you would like to make your annual fund gift today, please visit www.annualfund.tcu.edu.
For more information on how you can join The Campaign for TCU or make a gift to the Annual Fund and directly impact the future of the College of Education, contact Michele Cole, assistant dean for advancement, at 817-257-5562 or m.cole@tcu.edu or visit www.advancement.tcu.edu.
Stay Connected
Keep in touch! Have you changed your mailing address? Have a new e-mail address? Let us know so we can stay connected with you. Visit www.alumni.tcu.edu and update your information.
Contact us – Have a question or want to give us feedback? Let us know by phone 817-257-7660, by fax 817-257-7466, or by e-mail j.bosillo@tcu.edu. Also, visit our Web site @ www.coe.tcu.edu.
