Blavin scholars and mentors can establish a long-lasting connection that grows through graduation and beyond! Get matched with a mentor to:
- Receive additional guidance and support during your time at U-M
- Connect with a supportive adult around a common interest
- Learn more about navigating campus and finding available resources
- Build a support network
- Attend a variety of social events
How it Works
Blavin scholars and mentors are matched in one of three ways:
- During the annual Blavin Speed Match event in the fall. After the event, the program coordinator uses feedback from scholars and mentors to create matches.
- During mini-match meetings set up by the Blavin mentor coordinator.
- Through natural mentoring wherein a scholar identifies an existing U-M faculty or staff member who agrees to be trained and matched as a formal Blavin mentor.
Need more information? Hear from a Blavin mentor!
Become a Mentor
If you’re a U-M faculty or staff member interested in supporting a student who has spent time in foster care, this opportunity is for you!
Many of our scholars start their university career with no community connections. Some have a history of moving often and attending multiple schools. Mentors offer students a caring and supportive relationship they can count on, and research shows that supportive relationships help students stay in school when things get challenging.
Being a mentor is a direct and important contribution to the success of our scholars. Many students and mentors say that their experience with the program was one of the most meaningful experiences at U-M. And some of our mentor matches create lifelong bonds and maintain contact after the scholar graduates.
Blavin mentors should expect to:
- Offer support at least once monthly by email, text, or phone.
- Attend events and engage with the Blavin community.
- Meet with your mentee on- or off-campus to chat.
- Engage in job shadowing or career training.
- Experience local cultural events and activities.
- Enjoy a mutual hobby together.
- Learn something new together.
Blavin mentors are required to:
- Complete a half-day training to learn about the foster care experience and expectations of the Blavin Scholar program.
- Attend mentor meetings once per semester to connect with Blavin coaches and fellow members for support.
“Being a mentor is rewarding because it provides an opportunity to connect with smart, interesting, and funny young people who appreciate your support and offer you their trust and friendship. I enjoy witnessing their path to independent and successful adult lives.” — Blavin Mentor