The Department of Chemistry seeks current undergraduates in Chemistry or CS+Chemistry for the position of
Chemistry Mentor for a First-Year Experience (FYE) course, to be listed as either CHEM 150 or CHEM 199 FY in
fall 2021. The Chemistry Peer Mentors will work closely with the course coordinator to develop and implement
lessons for an 8-week-long course to help incoming Chemistry students transition to the university, identify campus
and departmental resources, develop key study skills and habits, and learn about career and other experiential
learning opportunities related to their major. To prepare for this position, Chemistry mentors will complete a
second 8-week course in spring 2021, where they will work with the course coordinator and other peer mentors on
developing lesson plans and activities to teach in fall 2021. Some of the course sessions will include training on
leading class discussions and being an effective peer mentor. Mentors will receive a total of 2 credit hours of
CHEM 297, as follows:
1 hour in Spring 2021 for POT B (March 15 – May 5, 2021)*
1 hour in Fall 2021 for POT A (August 23 – October 15, 2021)*
*Exact dates may be subject to change based on finalized SP 2021 & FA 2021 calendars
Chemistry Mentors will have the following
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Attend all required class and training sessions during POT B in spring 2021 (March 15 – May 5)
• Implement lesson plans and facilitate discussions for 20-25 first-year Chemistry students in the first 8 weeks
of the fall 2021 semester (August 23 – October 15)
• Help first-year students learn how to transition to college and navigate expectations
• Provide guidance and mentorship to first-year students
• Provide constructive feedback on student assignments in a timely manner
• Meet and consult with the course organizer and other mentors on a regular, weekly basis to discuss course
goals, strategies, and any challenges with implementation
• Represent Chemistry, SCS, LAS, and Illinois in a positive manner
Chemistry Mentors can be expected to develop the following
SKILLS:
• Public speaking and presentation skills
• Managing large and small group discussions
• Mentoring and coaching peers
• Collaborating with peers and supervisors to develop and implement course content
• Adaptability, flexibility, and problem-solving
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Current Chemistry or CS+Chemistry student with a planned graduation date of December 2021,
May/August 2022, December 2022, or May/August 2023
• Effective verbal communication and presentation skills
• Demonstrated ability to empathize and work well with others from diverse backgrounds
• Familiarity and understanding of resources in Chemistry and at Illinois
• (Preferred) Cumulative and major GPA of 3.0
• (Preferred) Prior leadership or teaching experience
• Must plan to enroll in classes at Illinois in fall 2021 and be available to attend all of the following:
o Weekly class sessions for CHEM 297 (50-75 mins) for the second 8 weeks of spring 2021
o Weekly meetings and CHEM 150 class sessions (50 mins each) for the first 8 weeks of fall 2021
o Regular (biweekly or once monthly) 1:1 meetings with the course coordinator
APPLY ONLINE by Friday, February 12 @ 11:59 pm
QUESTIONS: Email Kimberly Powers