CS Peer Mentor Program - NEW
Program overview: The MCS department is launching a new peer mentoring program to support direct entry first-year Computer Science students starting in September 2026. As this first year is a pilot, the number of mentors and mentees participating will be limited. Should this pilot year be successful, we anticipate growth in participants next year.
The program’s primary purpose is to support first-year direct-entry UTM Computer Science students’ academic transition, retention, and sense of belonging in a high-demand, technically rigorous program.
Mentor Expectations:
Key responsibilities include a mentor-to-mentee ratio of 1:5; one 1:1 meeting each term with each mentee; and monthly group meetings. Support from the Program Coordinator and the MCS academic advising team. Duration: October to April. Mentor orientation and training: August/September.
Mentee Expectations:
Key responsibilities include attending one 1:1 meeting with a mentor each term and monthly group meetings. Committed to attending and participating in in-person and virtual activities with your mentor and fellow mentees. Duration: October to April.
Benefits of Participation:
Mentors:
- Contribute to a welcoming and inclusive campus environment
- Gain leadership and volunteer experience
- Enhance your professional skills: communication and facilitating the goal setting of others
Mentees:
- Receive support from an upper-year student in the same academic program
- Make friends and build connections with fellow first-year CS students
- Work on short- and long-term learning objectives
Eligibility criteria:
Eligible Mentors: UTM computer science students in 3rd year (9.0 + credits) or above in CS Specialist, or IS Specialist, or CS Major with a strong academic standing (CGPA 3.5 and above). Additional qualifications: Attending classes on the UTM campus in Fall 2026 and Winter 2027 terms.
Eligible Mentees: First-year students in the UTM CMP1 (direct-entry) stream, enrolled in CSC110Y5 and CSC111H5. Registration status: Full-time.
Mentor Application details: Deadline for applications: Friday, July 3, 2026.
How to apply: MCS Peer Mentorship Application Form
** Mentee recruitment will begin September 1, 2026 **
Learn more about the Foundations of Mentorship
Information Session: we will be hosting an information session on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from 12pm noon to 1pm. No registration is required. The Zoom link will be posted here on June 24.
If you have any questions, email ugmcs.utm@utoronto.ca.