Support for Incoming Black Students (SIBS)

SIBS logoApply to be a mentor Mentee interest form
 

Support for Incoming Black Students (SIBS) is a year-long, student-led, peer mentorship program that prioritizes holistic well-being, retention, and success of University of Michigan students of any race/ethnicity, who are interested in issues that affect the Black community. Interested first-year and transfer students will be paired with an actively engaged mentor (upper-level student).

The goal of SIBS is to cultivate a supportive community and engaging experiences, as well as to provide intentional mentorship and educational opportunities. This includes personal, social, academic, and professional development that contributes to a fulfilling first-year experience.

How it works

  1. Incoming and/or first year students submit their interest for SIBS, and interested mentors fill out a separate application.
  2. Incoming and/or first-year students are paired with a mentor (Big SIB) who assists them with their transition to campus and college life at U-M.
  3. Mentors and mentees agree attend some required events and check in with each other at least monthly.

 

Benefits         

  • Monthly events that provide social and networking opportunities to engage with fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni
  • Access to the support and resources of the Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs
  • Up-to-date information about active student organizations, university programs, and campus events
  • Opportunities to strengthen your skills as a student leader and young professional in academia
  • Increased understanding of your identities and those of others
  • Work that involves uplifting experiences from the lens of race and ethnicity
     

Mentee/mentor expectations

  • Attend the SIBS fall kick-off event in September
  • Attend the SIBS Speed Matching event to help us pair you with the best Big SIB for you!
  • Attend SIBS monthly scheduled events
  • Attend the end-of-semester celebration(s) in December and April 
  • Maintain contact with your Big/Little SIB (meet at least twice a month)
  • Enjoy being a Wolverine!


 


 

Apply to be a mentor or mentee

Let us connect you with a mentor or mentee!


Mentee interest form  Mentor application form  

 

 

 

Have any questions?

If you have questions or are interested in joining SIBS, please contact MESA program manager Jamie Carter ([email protected]), (734)763-9044. You can also email the SIBS core team at [email protected].