Expectations

Mentee Expectations

Mentees must attend an orientation meeting at the beginning of September to meet their mentee group and mentor, review program expectations, and participate in team-building activities.

First Blazer participants are expected to attend all mentee meetings, as these meetings are a crucial organizational element aimed at supporting the mentees in achieving the organization’s outcomes. While attending small group events is highly encouraged, these are not a membership requirement. Mentees are also expected to respond to communications sent by their mentor. Consistently not responding to these communications may result in being contacted by the advisor.

Mentor Expectations

Throughout the summer, First Blazer mentors attend at least 2 in-person training sessions. Throughout the academic year, mentors are expected to be present for all office hours and Mentor Team meetings. In addition to mentors’ required attendance at mentee meetings and mentor team meetings, they are required to attend one service experience each semester and the National First-Generation Celebration Day in the fall semester. Mentors should also organize at least one small group event during the academic year. Because First Blazer mentors are student employees in the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, mentors are paid for attending all First Blazer events.

National First-Generation Celebration Day

The First Blazer program has a major presence at UAB’s celebration of National First-Generation Day during the week of November 8. To celebrate and recognize First Blazers and all first-gen UAB students, faculty, staff, and advocates, the program both attends and supports the execution of these events. This is a requirement for the mentor team. Participants are encouraged to attend National First-Generation Celebration Day events and may volunteer at the University-sponsored events.