Be the Inspiration.

Chicago Scholars’ Mentors guide Scholars through their first two years in our program. Mentors serve as valuable advisors, trusted friends and role models through the college admissions process, the transition from high school to college, and the first year on campus.

Apply Here

Have questions about becoming a Mentor with Chicago Scholars? Schedule a 15 minute 1 on 1 call with Jim Wright, our Manager of Mentorship and Coaching where you can chat directly about all the ins and outs of the program.

Schedule a call here!

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A MENTOR

HOLD A BACHELOR’S DEGREE

Mentors must hold a bachelor’s degree in any subject area.

COMMIT TO MENTORING FOR TWO YEARS

Mentors commit to working with their Scholars through the first two years of the Chicago Scholars’ program.

MONTHLY MEETINGS WITH SCHOLARS

Mentors meet with their Scholars at least once a month, though many check in more often and attend Chicago Scholars events with their cohort.

ATTEND MENTOR TRAINING SESSIONS

Mentors receive training and guidance from Chicago Scholars staff along with monthly curriculum and resources.

FOLLOW THE CHICAGO SCHOLARS WAY

We have high standards to ensure the safety and well-being of our Scholars. Click here to see the Chicago Scholars Core Values and Mentor Code of Conduct.

Nominate a Mentor

Every mentor we recruit increases our impact and allows us to serve more Scholars. Nominate a friend, family member, or colleague to join the team as a Chicago Scholars mentor.

Nominate a Mentor

Chicago Scholars does not share information with third parties, including SMS opt-in consent or phone numbers for the purpose of SMS.

How will I succeed as a mentor?

STAFF SUPPORT

Mentors are introduced to staff and interact with them often. If you need support or advice, Chicago Scholars’ staff are ready and available to help.

CURRICULUM & RESOURCES

Chicago Scholars uses a research-based curriculum to guide Scholars through the huge transition from high school to college.

TRAINING SESSIONS

Mentors attend training sessions to share tips and best practices with their peers and gain tools and resources needed to support Scholars.

TECHNOLOGY

Chicago Scholars uses technology to enhance our program and increase your impact as a mentor. Through REACH, a virtual education and career resource developed by Chicago Scholars, and other online tools, mentors and Scholars can connect to staff and resources at the click of a button.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Reach out to the Chicago Scholars mentoring team at getinvolved@chicagoscholars.org.

Meet Our Mentors of the Year

Jackie Gilson – High School Mentor of the Year

“I am truly honored and grateful to receive this mentoring award. As someone who has championed volunteerism and educational access throughout my life, mentoring comes very naturally to me. It has given me the opportunity to support and help students develop and believe in their potential as they prepare for their next chapter.

Most importantly, I’ve tried to come from a place of curiosity, encouragement, and fun! Regular zoom and in person meetings, college tours, and fun outings around our great city are all highlights that come to mind.

That said, watching SC students grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve their college goals has been the true reward. Being a mentor has reminded me that sometimes the greatest impact comes from simply showing up and truly listening.

I’m very excited about continuing the mentoring relationship with five CS students as they navigate freshman year and I am very humbled by this recognition. Thank you 🙏 ”

Jennifer Jones – College Mentor of the Year

“Being a mentor has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my life. While I hope I’ve made a positive impact on my scholars, the relationships we’ve built have been just as impactful for me. Their resilience, curiosity, and growth continually inspire me to be better. Receiving the College Mentor of the Year Award is an incredible honor, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of their journeys. My hope is that, in some small way, I’ve helped them build the confidence to one day pay it forward and become mentors themselves.”

Luke Migalla – CS Way Mentor of the Year

“This honor reflects the efforts of Scholars and my Co-Mentor Grace Lee Sawin. Mentorship is a shared adventure. The boundless energy, enthusiasm and persistence demonstrated by Chicago Scholars ensures their successful academic and professional journeys and fuels my desire to continue to learn, grow.”