Q'nnections Mentee Program
Q’onnections is a program designed to pair queer students with mentors who identify as queer, with the goal of fostering a sense of belonging within John Jay college. The program focuses on promoting personal growth, building a supportive community, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and facilitating the exploration of personal identity. It is specifically tailored for students interested in counseling and advocacy, providing valuable experiences for those attracted to fields such as Forensic Psychology, Human Services, and Social Work. Mentees are grouped based on their identity and interests, and they are matched with dedicated and approachable Queer Mentors who will guide them and provide resources throughout their time at John Jay. The Queer Mentors not only introduce students to fundamental LGBTQ+ concepts but also offer ongoing advice on how to thrive as an LGBTQ+ student or a supportive ally, while also connecting them with like-minded peers. Individual and group support sessions, as well as engaging LGBTQ+ activities and workshops, are facilitated by the mentors throughout the program.
- Foster a Sense of Belonging: Create an inclusive and supportive environment where mentees feel a strong sense of belonging within the college community.
- Provide Mentorship and Guidance: Pair mentees with dedicated Queer Mentors who offer guidance, support, and resources to navigate academic and personal challenges.
- Enhance LGBTQ+ Understanding: Increase mentees' knowledge and understanding of LGBTQ+ concepts, issues, and experiences through educational workshops and discussions.
- Develop Advocacy Skills: Empower mentees to become advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, social justice, and inclusivity within and beyond the college community.
- Cultivate Lifelong Connections: Support the development of enduring relationships between mentees and mentors, fostering a lasting network of support and mentorship.
As a mentee in the Q'nnections program, you will be placed into identity interest groups, ensuring that you connect with individuals who understand your experiences and interests. Our Queer Mentors are well-versed in LGBTQ+ concepts and will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive as an LGBTQ+ student or supportive ally.
Additionally, Q'nnections offers individual and group support sessions, as well as engaging LGBTQ+ activities and workshops, all designed to empower you and help you reach your full potential.
We sincerely appreciate your interest in joining the Q'nnections program. By becoming a mentee, you will gain invaluable experiences, create lifelong connections, and contribute to the positive and inclusive campus culture we strive for at John Jay College.
Please fill out the application form below to provide us with more information about yourself. We look forward to reviewing your application and welcoming you into the Q'nnections family!
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to offer support and guidance to all, but particularly undergraduate students.
Responsibilities:
- Be an approachable, friendly, and welcoming individual.
- Attend meetings with the Q'nnections Program Coordinator and other leaders for additional mentorship training and updates.
- Organize at least one LGBTQ+ based workshop or event for Queer Mentees outside of the monthly mentee meetings. If available, funding can be requested from the LGBTQ+ Resource Center.
- Serve as the initial point of contact for mentees and mediate conversations as needed.
- Communicate with the Q'nnections Program Coordinator in case of any issues within the mentor-mentee relationship.
- Fulfill any other responsibilities assigned by the Q'nnections Program Coordinator.
Requirements:
- Identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Commit to the mentoring relationship and program for at least one academic year.
- Respect the mentee's desired level of outness.
- Meet with the mentee at minimum three times a semester.
- Attend the mandatory orientation session with the mentee.
- Participate in workshops and activities hosted by the LGBTQ+ Resource Center.
- Provide feedback to the Director of the Program.
- Maintain good academic and judicial standing within John Jay College.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Have completed at least 12 credit hours.
- Be eligible to work in the United States.
- Must not be receiving any form of financial compensation within CUNY (no other stipends, CA position, etc.).
Please note that these expectations and requirements are essential for ensuring a successful mentorship experience within the Q'onnections program.
Application under development.
Contact us
Email: LGBTQ@JJAY.CUNY.EDU
Phone: (212) 237-8378
Join our Listerv and stay up to date on upcoming events and opportunities by registering to our listserv.