How does working with a mentor benefit me?
A mentor can help you:
- Explore more opportunities on campus and within the community
- Connect with a group of other first-gen students, faculty, and staff
- Find and engage in fun new social activities
- Join in one-on-one or group mentoring meet-ups and events
You'll also be part of a Cocky Crew!
A Cocky Crew provides you with personalized support through one-on-one meetings tailored
to your goals, as well as occasional small-group activities that help you build community,
share experiences, and learn alongside fellow first-gen students in the mentoring
program.
A Cocky Crew is formed with one or two student mentees (typically freshmen or sophomores) and one mentor.
Coming Later This Year: Fall 2026 Mentoring Schedule & Important Dates
We'll post details and instructions here to help you sign up for a Fall 2026 first-gen
mentor once details are available.
Follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest first-gen news and events! And don't forget to
subscribe to First-Gen News!
Who are the mentors?
Mentors at the University of South Carolina are people who genuinely care about supporting first-gen students. Many of them were first-gen themselves, so they truly understand the journey you’re on.
Our first-gen mentors come from all across campus, and include:
- Friendly faculty mentors
- Supportive staff mentors
- Insightful graduate student mentors
- Experienced upper-class peer mentors (sophomores, juniors, and seniors)
They're all here to help you feel confident, connected, and supported.
Have questions?
Email Melissa Kupfer at kupferm@email.sc.edu.
Interested in being a mentor?
Check out our Faculty and Staff Resources page to learn more about becoming a mentor.