Academic Resource Mentors (ARMs)
The Academic Resource Mentors program is an integral part of the First Year Experience at St. Cloud State University. ARMs are typically junior and senior undergraduate students who are selected and trained to serve as peer mentors to participants in FYE.
For 2007-08 Academic Resource Mentors have been assigned to the following program areas:
- FYE learning communities (both major-based and thematic)
- FYE living communities
- Honors program
- Division of General Studies College 150 course (College Transitions)
As undergraduate peer mentors, the ARMs provide a vital network of support for incoming students by interacting regularly with FYE participants, referring them to campus resources, and sponsoring events in the residence halls and elsewhere on campus. While most Academic Resource Mentors live on campus, they assist both resident and commuter students in their transition to the University throughout the first year.
The ARMs program is supervised by the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies/FYE Director, with assistance from several graduate students assigned to the FYE office. In addition to their ongoing work with first year students, Academic Resource Mentors are required to participate in a weekly staff development program in both the fall and spring semesters, which is designed to enhance their ability to provide effective transitional support for first year students.
Students interested in becoming an ARM should contact FYE Director Dr. Mike Gilbert, mjgilbert@stcloudstate.edu, or FYE Administrative Assistant Gayle Ruesch Clark, grclark@stcloudstate.edu, early in the spring semester.
