What is the purpose of having a mentor assigned to new students?

Having a mentor assigned to new students serves the essential purpose of providing guidance, support, and answering questions during their transition into the academic environment. This relationship is particularly important for newcomers who may feel overwhelmed by the changes and challenges they face as they adapt to a new setting. Mentors can help students navigate academic requirements, understand campus resources, and offer personal insights based on their experiences. This guidance fosters a sense of belonging and support, which can be crucial for a student's success and well-being during the initial stages of their educational journey. This direct support enhances the transition and can positively impact the students' overall experience.

Other options, while they can have value, do not capture the comprehensive support that a mentor provides. Financial support is typically handled through financial aid services, course selection advice generally falls under academic advising, and organizing social events is often managed by student organizations rather than a one-on-one mentorship relationship.