Harper College
Access & Disability Services

TAP Peer Mentor

As a component of Transition Autism Program (TAP), we are offering the opportunity to Harper students to mentor a student on the Autism Spectrum who will be attending Harper classes. The mentor will draw upon his/her own experiences as a student at Harper to provide support and encouragement to the incoming freshman. 

To apply to be a TAP Mentor, please complete the Mentor Application, and submit on line.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as an energetic and enthusiastic volunteer to help first-year students on the Autism Spectrum succeed at Harper
  • Develop and maintain relationships with and provide assistance and support for first-year students (focus on a smooth transition, acclimation and a sense of belonging)
  • Serve as a resource for students new to the College
  • Participate in training, programs and activities
  • Attend Peer Mentor trainings and monthly mentor/mentee sessions
  • Serve as a positive role model

Qualifications

  • Be in good academic and social standing
  • Be willing to learn and share information about the Harper College community, student life and campus resources
  • Demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills
  • Have a genuine desire to help their peers succeed
  • Demonstrate leadership potential
  • Be self-motivated with a positive attitude
  • Display a willingness to learn about different cultures

Benefits

 Peer mentors have the opportunity to:

  • Build close relationships with new students
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Guide new students through their first year
  • Enhance your own social skills and confidence
  • Improve your resume

Adapted from the Iowa State University Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, Multicultural Leadership Learning Community, http://www.dso.iastate.edu/msa/learningcommunities/gen10 

The Role of a Peer Mentor

  1. A knowledgeable guide for new students.
  2. A thoughtful facilitator who provides access to people and resources.
  3. A role model and advocate.

Training:

  1. Participation in a 1/2 day training and 1/2 day “meet and greet” session.
  2. Participation in ongoing in-service trainings each semester.

Mentor and Educator:

  1. Maintain regular contact with new students.
  2. Work both independently and as part of a team with fellow Peer Mentors.
  3. Attend and participate in all training sessions and group meetings.
  4. Understand and abide by all Harper College policies.
  5. Serve as a positive social and academic role model.
  6. Educate new students about various resources and student services available at Harper.
  7. Maintain confidentiality with any shared information.
  8. Coordinate and facilitate social and educational programs as desired or needed.
  9. Participate in formal evaluations and assessments of the program.
  10. Meet individually with the ADS staff.
  11. Participate in and complete all other tasks deemed necessary by the Project TAP staff.

For more information, contact Project TAP at projecttap@harpercollege.edu

Last Updated: 9/27/24