The BISC Buddy Mentorship Program aims to ease the transition of students from their first year of study at the Bader International Study Centre (BISC) to their second year at Queen’s University’s Kingston campus. Mentors offer a support network by being informed community members that facilitate and encourage positivity and reduce anxiety by hosting activities, providing guidance, and encouraging social interaction.
We encourage new-to-Queen’s second year students to participate in and take advantage of this program to integrate into their new community. Themes that we recognise as hurdles to students coming to Queen’s part-way through their academic journey include:
- disconnection with other students in their program,
- not knowing Queen’s traditions,
- acronyms commonly used over campus,
- and not knowing what services, clubs and networks are available to them
- reverse culture shock
Using the Mentors' own experience, returning students will be able to adapt more easily to the new campus, be introduced to the services available to them, integrate into the community, and feel like they have a better understanding of the lingo used and traditions associated with being a Queen's University student.
How do I participate?
Returning first year BISC students interested in meeting new people when arriving at Queen’s should join the dedicated Facebook Group as well as connect with the Mentors. Mentors will be available throughout the summer, leading up to the new Fall term, on the Facebook group and email, and will be hosting events and socials throughout the academic year.
Who are the Mentors?
Mentors are a select group of student leaders who attended the BISC in their first year of undergraduate studies and have completed their second year of undergraduate studies at Queen's University's Kingston campus. They know what it is like to familiarise themselves with a new campus and university environment. They understand the amazing year just experienced, and they really are eager to make sure everyone has a fantastic second year of university.
How do I contact current Mentors?
You can find contact information at http://www.queensu.ca/studentexperience/bisc-mentorship-program.
For more information about the BISC Buddy Mentorship Program or to get involved with the program e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
