Applicant FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The SAW Program welcomes questions from prospective SAW mentors. Don't see the answer you are seeking? Feel free to contact the SAW Administrative Office.

When will the next hiring cycle begin?
The fall 2020 hiring cycle has begun and applications from prospective mentors are due January 25, 2021.

What is the timeline for becoming a SAW Mentor?
The hiring process begins every fall semester and applications are due mid-December. If accepted into the Program, you will enroll in a mentor training course (CUSP 212-01) in the following spring semester. After completing the course, you will begin your mentoring work the following fall, either working in the SAW Center or as a course mentor. Most SAW mentors work as course mentors and center mentors throughout their employment with the program.

What should I do before beginning my application?
Begin by learning more about the SAW Program. Applicants are also encouraged to schedule an appointment at the SAW Center to experience a one-on-one session with a current peer mentor. If a SAW Mentor is working in one of your courses as a course mentor, ask her what it is like to work for SAW.

I am a transfer student; can I still apply to be a SAW Mentor?
Yes, the SAW Program welcomes all current Mount Holyoke students to apply. Transfer students may solicit one recommendation from an instructor from their previous institution(s), in addition to a Mount Holyoke College faculty member.

I am a first year student; can I still apply to be a SAW Mentor?
Yes, the SAW Program welcomes all current Mount Holyoke students to apply. First year students may solicit one recommendation from an instructor from their previous institution(s), including high school, in addition to a Mount Holyoke College faculty member.

How will I be prepared to work as a SAW Mentor? What preparation will I receive?
Students hired into the SAW Program will be enrolled in a half-semester CUSP-212-01 course in the spring semester following their acceptance into the Program. The completion of this course is a requirement. In this course, you will receive training and education on theories and practices of peer mentoring and collaborative learning to prepare you for your work as a SAW peer mentor.

When does CUSP 212-01 meet?
CUSP-212-01: Peer Mentoring will be held during block 6 in the last module of the spring 2021 semester. This course will meet online.

I am not sure if the CUSP 212-01 will fit in my academic schedule, should I still apply?
The CUSP-212-01 class is a requirement, as it prepares you for your work as a SAW Mentor and attendance for the full class time is crucial. Many students' schedules change considerably in the beginning of the semester, such as when the add/drop period occurs. You are encouraged to apply if you think there a chance your schedule will change to allow you to take the CUSP 212-01 course. Remember, this course takes place during the second half of spring semester following your acceptance into the SAW Program.

I know for certain that I am unable to take the CUSP 212-01 course, can special arrangements be made?
No special arrangements can be made to accommodate individual schedules at this time. Prospective mentors who are unable to enroll in the CUSP 212-01 course in the spring are encouraged to apply in the next hiring cycle (fall 2021).