International Peer Mentors

Bridge is a mentoring program designed to help students transition to UND. 

First-year international students (mentees) are placed in a small group led by an upper-class student (Bridge Mentor).  Mentors are current UND students who have completed at least one year at UND and are selected and trained in the skills necessary to guide first-year international students. 

About Bridge Mentors

Bridge Mentors serve as a resource for their mentees by checking in regularly to ensure a smooth transition to UND and to help them adjust to the U.S. culture.  Mentors are available to answer questions, are knowledgeable about campus resources, host social activities, and help mentees with general academic issues.  In addition, the Bridge Program allows mentees to learn from monthly group meetings that range from social gatherings to personal skill development.

Mentors provide a range of services:

• Academic support: Mentors may help students with study skills, time management, and understanding course material.
• Social support: Mentors may help students feel connected to the UND community and provide advice on navigating social situations and building relationships.
• Personal support: Mentors may offer guidance on personal issues, such as managing stress, dealing with family or relationship problems, and finding resources for mental health support.
• Cultural adjustment: Mentors provide guidance and advice on culture shock, such as overcoming the challenges of adapting to a new culture, dealing with a different educational system, and facilitating cross-cultural communication.
• Scholarship resources: Mentors may direct students to the Fellowship Coordinator, yee.chu@UND.edu, if mentees seek externally funded support for academic enrichment activities.

The program is FREE and starts at the beginning of each academic year (Fall) and continues through the end of the academic year (Spring).

Bridge Benefits

The benefits of the Bridge Program are:

• Transition to UND with other first-year international students and have a group of students to connect with who have similar experiences.
• Connect new students with peer mentors and student organizations/clubs on campus.
• Get involved in the campus community and learn about resources early.
• Share successful strategies for navigating college and getting involved.

Join Bridge Program

If you would like to sign up for the Bridge Program, please complete the Bridge Mentee Registration Form

Mentors are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Mentees are primarily paired based on degree level or academic major, but applicants may be paired on other factors. Program commitment for mentees is a full academic year, consisting of the fall and spring semesters.

Questions

For questions, please contact Manuela Gabriel, Director of International Center at manuela.gabriel@UND.edu