Training:

• Attend and actively participate in all Transition Mentor training sessions and retreats, as outlined below in the "Time Commitments" section.

Orientation:

• Assist with checking in approximately 170 students during each orientation program.
  
• Facilitate conversations about the transition to Wichita State University with new students and their families.
• Respond to fundamental questions about WSU and guide new students to key locations on campus.
• Provide support during our SHOCKFEST welcome weekend.
• Work with interns and professional staff to prepare orientation materials and manage inventory for smooth orientation operations. 

Other Duties:

• Provide additional support to First-Year Program events such as Clash of the Colleges, Shocker State Fair and Mentor Meet-Ups.
• Serve as a positive role model, representing Wichita State University, The Office of Student Success: First-Year Programs, and the Transition Mentor team.
• Create a welcoming community for new students.
• Demonstrate flexibility, dependability, responsibility, and punctuality consistently.
• Occasionally lift and carry objects weighing under 50 lbs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Applicants must meet the criteria outlined below to be considered for position and remain eligible throughout the duration of employment:

• Current undergraduate student, enrolled in at least 12 credit hours. 
• Be in good academic standing with WSU, maintaining a minimum 2.50 GPA throughout employment.
• Be in good conduct standing with WSU at the time of application and throughout employment.
• Abide by State and University policies.
• Demonstrate willingness to grow personally and professionally.
• Ability to attend and successfully complete all training and commitments outlined below.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Sophomore through senior standing (in fall semester of 2026).

Transition Mentors will be compensated starting at $11.00/hr beginning in January 2027 after signing their contract and beginning Spring Training. 

In addition to hourly wage, Transition Mentors can also expect the following benefits from this role:

• Staff uniforms (jersey, backpack, nametag, etc.)
• Additional orientation swag and accessories.
• On-campus housing opportunity throughout the summer.
• Meals provided during summer Orientation sessions.
• Leadership and professional development opportunities through hands-on experience, training sessions, and networking with students, university staff, and other professionals.
• Be the face of WSU and share your love of Wichita State with all incoming students and their families.

Skills You Will Gain:

• Leadership
• Teamwork/Collaboration
• Professionalism
• Time Management
• Problem-Solving
• Communication Skills
• WSU Knowledge

Training:

Training is organized as a class during the spring semester. Weekly training will be determined after staff is selected to accommodate the team's class schedule.

Training is required of all new and returning Transition Mentors.

Spring classes cannot interfere with TM training. 

 

Spring 2027:

Date:	Program:
January 11 12:00-7:00pm	Welcome Retreat Attendance is mandatory.
January 15	New Shocker Orientation Attendance is mandatory.
January Weekly Training	Training will be scheduled after team is selected Attendance is mandatory.
February 19-21	NODA Spring Learning Conference in Texas
May 20-21	TM Overnight Retreat Attendance is mandatory.

Summer 2027:

Date:	Program:
June 3 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
June 11 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation (Spanish Family Track)
June 14 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
June 25 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation (Spanish Family Track)
July 17 | 7:30am-2:30pm	New Student Orientation
July 19 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
July 27 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
August 2 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
August 7 | 7:30am-2:30pm	New Student Orientation
August 10 | 7:30am-2:30pm	New Student Orientation
August 12 | 7:00am-5:00pm	Freshman Orientation
August 13-15 | Various Times	SHOCKFEST

Fall 2027:

Date:	Program:
August 20	13th Annual Clash of the Colleges
September 24	4th Annual Shocker State Fair
Various	Mentor Meet-Ups

*Transition Mentors are also expected to communicate regularly with their mentees throughout the fall semester via email and GroupMe.

Application Process:

Apply here! Application will close October 31st at 11:59pm.

Selection Process:

1. Application: All applications, references, and qualifications (GPA/full conduct review) will be reviewed by the Student Program Coordinator of First-Year Programs.

2. Individual Interview: After you submit your application, selected applicants will be emailed to schedule a 20 minute individual interview throughout October and November.

3. Group Interview: Those who are selected to participate in the group interview will be contacted. The group interview will take place Saturday, November 21st from 9am-12pm and is required for those wishing to move on through the selection process. This is the final stage in the application process.

4. All applicants will be notified of decisions by November 25th.

What is a Transition Mentor?

A Transition Mentor (TM) is a student leader who supports first-year students as they transition to college life. TMs help new students feel connected, confident, and supported by sharing resources, answering questions, and building relationships throughout the summer and fall semester.

Do I have to be nominated to become a Transition Mentor?

No, you do not have to be nominated to apply. If you are interested, we encourage you to apply on your own!

Can I serve as a Transition Mentor more than once?

Yes, but your ability to return is contingent on your performance throughout your initial term as a Transition Mentor.

Can I take a summer class if I'm working as a Transition Mentor?

Students selected for the Transition Mentor role may have the opportunity to take summer classes. However, it's important to balance this with the responsibilities of the role, including working all programs, trainings, retreats and events outlined in the time commitment section. We encourage applicants to discuss their interest in taking summer classes during the interview process and to consider online, asynchronous course to minimize conflicts.

In addition, you are expected to plan summer vacations and/or co-curricular activities around our summer break (June 26-July 16).

Can I hold another on-campus job if I'm working as a Transition Mentor?

Students selected for the Transition Mentor role may hold an outside job during the duration of their employment. However, Transition Mentors are advised to communicate with their supervisor as soon as possible and ensure activities do not conflict with position responsibilities. 

Do I need prior leadership experience?

No! Leadership can look like a lot of things - jobs, group projects, clubs, athletics, volunteering, or simply being someone others rely on. We’re more interested in your mindset and willingness to learn than a long résumé.

Is summer housing provided for Transition Mentors?

Yes! Free summer housing is available for Transition Mentors, but space is limited and not guaranteed. More details will be shared after selections are made.

 

Questions?

Contact Kaelyn Hannah at (316) 978-3453 or kaelyn.hannah@wichita.edu.