How College Mentorship Program Transformed This International Student's Experience

When international student Alyssa Palmer ’23TCB arrived at St. John’s University in Queens, NY, she quickly understood the importance of mentorship. Reflecting on her transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, she recently shared how a supportive community and access to first-year mentorship programs motivated her and provided the essential tools needed to thrive.

Introduction to St. John’s

Alyssa was introduced to St. John’s University at a college fair in Kingston, Jamaica. “I started considering pursuing my college journey in the United States as early as ninth or 10th grade,” she recalled. The prospect of international education led her to apply to approximately 15 schools, each offering different opportunities and challenges.

Alyssa chose St. John’s after touring the campus during Accepted Student Day. “St. John’s University deserves significant praise for its Accepted Student Day,” she shared. “I had such a great time in New York that weekend. It stood out from my top three choices.” 

First-Year College Mentorship Program and Navigating New York City Life

As an international student, Alyssa’s first semester included several challenges, such as adapting to a new culture and city. She recalls the invaluable support offered through the St. John’s international student mentorship program, Project AIM. Through this program, she was paired with her mentor, Kyra Lewis ’22TCB, whom she had met during International Orientation.

“I was so happy to have her as my mentor and support system. She is truly one-of-a-kind,” Alyssa reflected. Beyond emotional support, Kyra helped Alyssa with her academics as well. “She was already a tutor in the University Learning Commons, but took the extra step to ensure that I understood the class material I was struggling with.”

Then, upon the start of the 2020 spring semester, the college experience was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. “I went home for spring break, came back from Jamaica that Monday, and woke up to a bunch of messages saying the school was on pause for the rest of the week,” she recalled. Alyssa credits St. John’s mentorship programs for keeping students afloat during this uncertain time.

“The mentorship leaders scheduled virtual coffee chats, and everyone joined in from wherever they were around the world. I was grateful for the opportunity to maintain those interpersonal connections,” Alyssa shared.

From Mentee to Mentor

When asked about campus life and returning to an in-person college format, Alyssa reflected on how her mentor encouraged her to leave her comfort zone and engage in University life. She explained, “Those gentle nudges to participate in University events and student activities motivated me to get involved sooner rather than later."

The positive impact of her experiences led Alyssa to become a mentor through Project AIM; the R.I.S.E. (Reach, Inspire, Succeed, Empower) Network; and E.P.I.C. (Establish Relationships, Promote Possibilities, Impact Direction, Confirm Next Steps), although she admits that it wasn’t initially her idea.

“At first, it was more like, ‘Hey, I’m doing this; you should try it too,’” she recalled, referring to Kyra’s encouragement to join the mentorship program. 

However, what began as a suggestion quickly evolved into a genuine passion. “After being appointed as a mentor and realizing I could help someone, I discovered that I enjoy helping people. It’s just an innate thing,” she explained.

Professional Growth and Future Aspirations

Now, as a current graduate assistant for the R.I.S.E. Network mentorship program, Alyssa’s journey has come full circle. She is working behind the scenes, planning training sessions and developing mentorship programming. Under the guidance of her supervisor, Amber Wilson, Alyssa is gaining valuable experience that connects her academic studies with practical application.

“I didn’t necessarily see myself as a graduate assistant of the mentor program,” Alyssa admitted, “It’s funny because being a mentor in undergrad is one of the things that defined me.” Her current role allows her to combine her marketing studies with her passion for mentorship while exploring various aspects of the field, from content creation to data analytics.

The Power of Paying it Forward

For Alyssa, one of the most valuable lessons from her St. John’s experience has been the importance of giving back. “St. John’s continues to remind me to pay it forward,” she reflected. “People across the entire University continue to support me, and in my current role, I aspire to do the same for others.”

Her advice for incoming students, especially international students, emphasizes the importance of embracing mentorship opportunities: “It will be overwhelming, but take your time and don’t ignore your mentors. They’re there to help you, whether with academics, finding the bus stop, or just checking in on your well-being.”

She particularly encourages students to take advantage of the networking opportunities within mentorship programs, noting that some of her closest friends were made through these experiences.

Take the Next Step in Your St. John’s Journey

As Alyssa’s story demonstrates, mentorship can transform your college experience. St. John’s University offers several first-year mentoring programs designed to support your transition and help you thrive:

Project AIM: International Student Success, specially designed for international students like Alyssa, pairs students with experienced mentors who understand the unique challenges of studying abroad.

The R.I.S.E. Network (Reach, Inspire, Succeed, Empower) is a multicultural program that provides personalized mentorship opportunities focused on building community, developing leadership skills, and supporting your academic journey at St. John’s.

The E.P.I.C. (Establish Relationships, Promote Possibilities, Impact Direction, Confirm Next Steps) mentor program connects you with upper-class mentors who guide you through your first year, helping you discover campus resources and become an active member of the St. John’s community.

Don’t wait to find your mentor! Join one of these transformative programs today and follow Alyssa’s footsteps—from mentee to mentor, from newcomer to campus leader. For more information, contact Amber Wilson, Director of First-Year Mentoring Programs, at [email protected] or [email protected].