Division of Student Affairs > Student Life > For New Students > Transfer Peer Mentors @ DePaul

Transfer Peer Mentors @ DePaul

​​​​​​​​​​The Transfer Peer Mentor Program is a FREE program that connects you with an experienced DePaul transfer student to help you navigate your first year at DePaul. Our mentors understand the ups and downs of being a transfer student and are ready to help you make the most of your time as a Blue Demon!

Transfer Peer Mentors can help with:

  • Advice and guidance on navigating DePaul's campus and resources.
  • Opportunities to connect with other transfer students and the wider DePaul community.
  • Learn about joining student clubs & organizations.
  • Resources and support to help you meet your specific goals.
  • Tips on how to survive the quarter system and academic resources.
  • Any other questions you might have or things you’ve been wondering about!

What Mentees can expect:

  • A welcome phone call from your mentor within the first two weeks of being matched.
  • Frequent communications from your mentor about important dates, resources, and student events & activities.
  • Meetings with your mentor: this is a good opportunity to talk about how things are going, ask questions, or get advice.
  • Transfer Student socials and access to group success coaching for transfer students.
  • Your mentor will be matched with you for the whole academic year.

Tips for meeting with your Mentor:

  • Set up a time to meet with them. We recommend meeting at least once a quarter with your mentor, but you can also meet once a month or more often as needed. Mentors can meet with you at either campus, over the phone, or on Zoom.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your mentor was once a brand-new transfer student and they know what it is like to be new to DePaul. They can probably answer most questions that you might have and even if they don't know the answer, they can help you find it. No question is too small or too silly.
  • You do not have to have questions to meet-up with your mentor. If you have no questions for your mentor, no worries! They are still a great person to get to know and can be someone you can talk to. They love getting to know their mentees and just talking about how the quarter is going.
  • Have fun! The mentors are great people, and this is a great way to connect with the DePaul community

Frequently Asked Questions

New transfer students who are enrolled in classes will receive an email invitation via their DePaul email a few weeks before the quarter starts. That will include a link to an intake form which will help us to match you with a mentor. Once the intake form has been completed, matching typically takes place with one to two weeks. If you did not receive an email with an invitation to join the program, email us at transfer@depaul.edu to inquire.

Mentors can help you delve deeper into an academic interest, career field, or activity that you already excel at, whether it's finding an internship, getting a promotion, succeeding in an advanced class, or being elected to a leadership role. Having a mentor also increases your networking and opens you up to a new group of people you might not have met on your own.

  • Think about what goals you have for your time at DePaul and communicate those clearly to your mentor.
  • Learn about your mentor's background and ask about the connections and experiences that are most interesting to you.
  • Think about what your interests are and how you’d like to be involved on campus—they can help you get connected with students groups, clubs, and events.
  • Need help making a plan to get through the quarter? Ask your mentor for help—they can offer tips for navigating the quarter system, staying organized, and what the best resources are.
  • Your mentor is not an academic advisor or a mental health counselor. If your questions need to be answered by a professional staff person, your mentor can help you get connected to those resources.

Mentors can meet with you in-person at both campuses, over the phone, and on Zoom.

This happens sometimes. We do our best to match you with a mentor that we think will be a good fit for you but sometimes it just doesn't quite click. Feel free to reach out to transfer@depaul.edu and let us know that you'd like to be matched with a different mentor.

If you have been at DePaul for at least 2 quarters, keep an eye on the Campus Job Board for postings. We typically hire our mentors during spring quarter to be part of the team for the following academic year. If you have more questions about the requirements, etc. contact Annie Devine at annie.devine@depaul.edu.

Events

The Transfer Peer Mentors plan events from time to time just for transfer students like you! Our DeHub page has information about upcoming events and activities. Some event highlights include:

  • Transfer Tuesday student socials: themed events with a chance to connect with other transfer students and mentors.
  • National Transfer Student Week: Oct. 16-20, 2023
  • Access to ACE group success coaching events

Drop-In Mentoring is available!

Feel free to stop by anytime between 1pm-4pm, Mon-Thurs, and talk with one of our mentors or student success coaches – even if you already have a mentor or never got around to getting matched with one.

  • Loop: ACE Study Lounge, DPC 11017
  • Lincoln Park: Office of Multicultural Student Success, LPSC 105

Additional assistance

If you are a transfer student matched with a mentor, start by asking them any questions you have. If you need additional assistance or don’t have a mentor, email us at transfer@depaul.edu.

Meet the Mentors

Sydney Sydney
Sydney

Pronouns: she/her

College: Education (COE)

Bio:
Sydney transferred to DePaul from Joliet Junior College and is a senior studying Secondary Education with a focus on English. In her spare time, she enjoys playing cards, board games, video games, and working on puzzles. Sydney is also passionate about arts and crafts, including crocheting, needle felting, and creating her own zines and doodles. She loves participating in community service opportunities, especially through DePaul's Community Service Association, and enjoys reading, writing, and taking relaxing walks around the green spaces in Lincoln Park. On campus, Sydney is involved in the DePaul Euchre Club, DePaul Community Service Association, DePaul Zinesters, DePaul Activities Board, and the DePaul TV Incubator. Her favorite thing about Chicago is exploring the local green spaces and historical sites. At DePaul, she appreciates the wide range of opportunities available for students, from fun student organizations to professional development and unique events. ​

Mentoring Motivation:

I wanted to become a mentor to help other transfer students have the best experience possible at DePaul! Transferring has unique challenges, which can make it harder to navigate college—I want to share my experiences and insight, and help others as they begin their journey at DePaul.​
Sasha Sasha
Sasha

Pronouns: she/her

College: Communication (COMM)

Bio:

Sasha transferred to DePaul from North Park University and is a senior majoring in Communication and Media Studies with minors in Legal and Public Affairs and UX Design. Originally from Muncie, Indiana, she enjoys coaching tennis, cooking and baking, exploring Chicago’s diverse food scene, and trying new activities like Aerial Arts and street photography. Sasha is involved in the Pre-Law Club, Kalahi, Intramural Volleyball, and co-founded DePaul Mall with her classmates. Her favorite thing about Chicago is the amazing variety of food spots, and she loves being part of DePaul’s supportive community in such a vibrant city. ​

Mentoring Motivation:

I wanted to become a mentor to spread a sense of community to other transfer students who might feel intimidated by the city. I’m excited to work with you to ensure you feel comfortable, accepted, and supported at DePaul!​
Ryan Ryan
Ryan

Pronouns: he/him

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:

Ryan is a senior majoring in Data Science with minors in Mathematics and Community Service. Originally from Chicago, he enjoys cooking, especially Indian dishes like Biryani and Butter Chicken, and experimenting with new recipes. In his free time, Ryan also plays guitar, often learning songs he enjoys or playing for friends. He is an avid gym-goer, using his workouts to boost his mood and energy levels. At DePaul, Ryan is actively involved in SASA, PSA, Aandhi, AI Club, Thaakat, the APIDA Center, and various CS clubs. His favorite things about Chicago include the beaches and the diverse food scene, and he values the strong sense of community at DePaul. ​

Mentoring Motivation:

I want to help people find their own community at DePaul and feel comfortable on campus. Everyone deserves a safe space where they can be themselves.​

Ruchi Ruchi
Ruchi

Pronouns: she/her

College: Communication (COMM)

Bio:

Ruchi transferred to DePaul from UC Santa Cruz and is a senior studying Journalism. She loves fashion, making clothes, cooking, singing, dancing, and exploring the city. Ruchi’s favorite thing about Chicago is visiting new places and meeting new people, as there's so much to do here! At DePaul, she enjoys the balanced schedule and campus life, which allows time for activities outside of school. She’s involved in campus media, such as The DePaulia and 14 East Magazine.

Mentoring Motivation:

I struggled a lot my first year here and want to make that easier for other students! I hope I can help you find your community and thrive not only at DePaul but in Chicago as well!​

Riley Kay Riley Kay
Riley Kay

Pronouns: she/her

College: Science and Health (CSH)

Bio:

Riley Kay transferred to DePaul from Columbia College Chicago and is a senior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Music Studies. Originally from New Hope, PA, she loves attending concerts and music performances, as well as performing herself. Riley also enjoys long walks around the city and exploring Chicago’s green spaces. At DePaul, she is involved with the DePaul Outdoors Club. She treasures Chicago’s vibrant music scene and the diverse, friendly people. The best part of being at DePaul for Riley is the opportunity to experience living in such an exciting city.​

Mentoring Motivation:

Having participated in the mentor program myself, I truly appreciated the support I received from my Transfer Peer Mentor. I hope to help you find your place at DePaul and feel a sense of belonging in both the university and the city.​

Penny Penny
Penny

Pronouns: she/her

College: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (LAS)

Bio:

Penny transferred to DePaul from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and is a junior majoring in History of Art and Architecture with minors in Archaeology and Music Studies. Originally from Downers Grove, IL, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, hiking, cooking, baking, visiting museums, and exploring new places in the city. At DePaul, Penny is involved in the Pep Band and various music ensembles in the School of Music. She appreciates Chicago's rich culture, history, and the wide range of activities and opportunities available.​

Mentoring Motivation:
I want to help others navigate the challenging and sometimes overwhelming experience of transferring. My goal is to assist you in finding your place at DePaul and to offer advice on adjusting to a new school and city.​
Luis Luis
Luis

Pronouns: he/him

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:

Luis transferred to DePaul from Harold Washington College and is a senior studying Accountancy. In his free time, Luis enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, which help him unwind and connect with nature. He is also a passionate sports fan, especially when it comes to soccer, and he loves cheering for his favorite teams. On campus, Luis is involved in Beta Alpha Psi, the DePaul Accounting Club, and ACE. His favorite thing about Chicago is the city's diversity, made up of many different communities, cultures, and experiences. At DePaul, he values the small class sizes, which allow for deeper connections and a strong sense of community. ​

Mentoring Motivation:

Throughout my own experiences, I realized how helpful it is to have someone guide you through the transfer process. By becoming a peer transfer mentor, I hope to help others make their journey smoother and more successful. My goal is to support you through your journey, whether it's navigating campus, connecting with resources, or finding your place in a new environment.​

Lark Lark
Lark

Pronouns: she/they

College: Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS)

Bio:

Lark transferred to DePaul from Wilbur Wright College and is a senior majoring in Applied Behavioral Science. Originally from Augusta, GA, Lark enjoys spending time with their partner and pets, being outdoors or on the water, watching TV and movies, biking, solving puzzles, and engaging in activities related to recovery from addiction, SSICK, and RACK. They are involved with the ACE Office, TRiO SSS, and CSD. Lark appreciates Chicago’s CTA system for its efficiency and values the wealth of resources available at DePaul to support students on their academic journeys.​

Mentoring Motivation:

I want to help adult students navigate the transfer process and balance their domestic, academic, career, and social commitments. As a nontraditional student, I know it can feel like you’re missing out on campus life due to other responsibilities. I want to show you that you’re not alone and help you find your footing to achieve your academic and career goals.​​
Isabella Isabella
Isabella

Pronouns: she/her

College: Theatre (THEA)

Bio:

Isabella transferred to DePaul from McHenry County College and is a junior studying Theatre Arts with minors in Performance Studies and Non-Profit Organizations. She is actively involved on campus as a Chicago Quarter Mentor, Campus Tour Guide, member of Blue Demon Theatre, and part of the Speech and Debate Society. Isabella’s favorite thing about Chicago is the diverse arts scene, and she appreciates the many resources DePaul has to offer students. 

Mentoring Motivation:

As a transfer student myself, I felt a little lost in finding community. As a TPM, I want to be there for others that have felt the same way. I hope that I can be a friendly face as you transition to DePaul. I am here to answer any questions, whether they're about classes or about living in the city! Never hesitate to reach out.​

Emily Emily
Emily

Pronouns: she/her

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:

Emily transferred to DePaul from Joliet Junior College and is a senior majoring in Film and Television Production with a minor in Creative Advertising. Originally from Yorkville, IL, she enjoys working on creative projects, such as student films, and is passionate about crocheting, arts and crafts, photography, photo editing, and playing games. During the summer, Emily is part of a steel pan ensemble. Her favorite thing about Chicago is its museums, and she highly recommends the architectural boat tour on the river. Emily appreciates DePaul's diverse and welcoming community, which makes it stand out from other institutions. ​

Mentoring Motivation:

I wanted to become a mentor to help other transfer students have a positive experience at DePaul. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and assist you in navigating all that DePaul has to offer!​

Arham Arham
Arham

Pronouns: he/him

College: Science and Health (CSH)

Bio:
Arham transferred to DePaul from Harper College and is a senior majoring in Data Science. Originally from Bartlett, he enjoys working out, playing soccer, trying new food places, and spending time with friends. Arham is involved with DePaul UMMA and values the people and community at DePaul. His favorite thing about Chicago is the lake. ​​
Mentoring Motivation:
I became a mentor to help new students get started at DePaul. I hope to support you every step of the way in your transition to DePaul and be there to help and listen.​
Angela Angela
Angela

Pronouns: she/her

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:
Angela transferred to DePaul from Benedictine University and is a junior studying Economics with a minor in International Politics. In her spare time, she enjoys writing poetry and short stories, watching TV shows, and exploring new cafes and restaurants in Chicago with friends. Angela is also passionate about discovering TV series from different languages and cultures. On campus, she is actively involved with Women in Business, Females in Finance, Model UN, and the Economics Club, and she volunteers as an International Student Peer Mentor. Angela’s favorite thing about Chicago is its vibrant and accessible atmosphere, offering a wide range of activities and opportunities to explore.​
Mentoring Motivation:
I wanted to become a mentor because I was a transfer student last year, and I know it can be tough but also fun. I had a mentor who helped me and made my transition as smooth as possible. I want to do the same for new incoming transfer students because having someone you can rely on at the start makes a huge difference.​
Ameet Ameet
Ameet

Pronouns: he/him

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:

Ameet transferred to DePaul from Moraine Valley Community College and is a senior studying Management Information Systems with a minor in Sports Business. In his free time, Ameet enjoys hanging out with friends, trying new places to eat, and sight-seeing around the city. He recently took up thrift shopping, finding it both fun and challenging. He also loves listening to podcasts and reading a good book whenever he gets the chance. At DePaul, Ameet is involved in the Collegiate Entrepreneurship Organization (CEO) and the Sports Business Club. His favorite thing about Chicago is the variety of food spots and the beautiful skyline. At DePaul, Ameet values the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers and grow as a professional.​

Mentoring Motivation:

I want to become a mentor because many mentors in my life have impacted me positively, and I want to give back to those who seem like they need guidance or help. I hope that with my help, you feel more welcomed at DePaul and gain the confidence to navigate any challenges that come your way, whether in your academic or personal life.​