How a mentor supports you
Many students arrive at U-M with few connections. Matching with a mentor allows you to:
- Connect with a current faculty or staff member who shares your interests.
- Learn tips for navigating campus and finding university resources.
- Receive consistent guidance and encouragement during your time at U-M.
- Attend fun Blavin social events with other scholars.
How mentor matches are made
Blavin Speed Match: Meet potential mentors at our annual fall event, then give us your preferences to help our coordinator build a thoughtful match.
Mini-Match Meetings: Casual, one-on-one introductions arranged by our coordinator to help you find the best fit.
Natural Mentoring: If you already know a U-M faculty or staff member who wants to be your mentor, they can complete our training to join the program.
Becoming a mentor
Volunteering as a mentor is a direct investment in a student’s journey and long-term success. To ensure a meaningful experience, mentors commit to both foundational training and ongoing student engagement activities.
Mentor program requirements:
If you are U-M faculty or staff and you’d like to become a mentor, you must:
- Complete an online Canvas training module about foster care and Blavin Scholars Program expectations.
- Attend mentor training once per semester to connect and share insights with fellow mentors.
Ongoing program commitments
- Connect with your scholar at least once monthly.
- Meet on- or off-campus to chat or enjoy a shared hobby.
- Share professional development opportunities.
- Explore local cultural and academic events.
- Attend key events and engage with the Blavin community.