International Mentorship Program

Red Deer Polytechnic's International Mentorship Program connects new international students with continuing students who can provide them with ongoing advice and support as they transition to life in Canada and at Red Deer Polytechnic.

New international students ("Mentees") will be paired with a continuing Red Deer Polytechnic student ("Mentors") based on similarities in programs and/or interests.

This mentorship program seeks to foster a welcoming and respectful environment where students can connect with one another, share their experiences, and expand their global network.

Why should I join or volunteer?

There are many reasons why you should join our International Mentorship Program!

Mentees: New International Students

Learn about other cultures and expand your global connections
Learn more about yourself
Receive casual peer-advice from a fellow Polytechnic student about your courses, campus life, and things to do in Red Deer and central Alberta
Attend social events/activities organized by RDP International where you can meet other students
Make the most out of your experience at our institution and in our city and region

Mentors: Continuing International Students and Domestic Students

Learn about other cultures and expand your global connections
Learn more about yourself
Develop valuable intercultural communication and event planning skills
Get involved in our community and receive a letter of reference from RDP International (Commit a minimum of 20-hours to the International Mentorship Program per academic year)
Earn a co-curricular record on your official transcript (commit a minimum of 20-hours to the International Mentorship Program per academic year)
Stand out in the competitive job market
Make the most out of your experience at our institution and in our city and region

Who is eligible to join or volunteer?

Mentees: New International Students

Any new international students (over 18+ years old) can request for a Mentor. Priority will be given to new international students in their first year.

Mentors: Continuing International Students and Domestic Students

To be eligible to volunteer as a Mentor, students must:

Be a current Red Deer Polytechnic student (domestic or international)
Have completed a minimum of one term of study at Red Deer Polytechnic
Be in good academic standing (Minimum GPA of 2.0)
Able to commit a specific number of hours per semester (1 year commitment)

Students interested in volunteering as a Mentor must complete an application form. Mentors will be selected based on availability, fit and commitment to the program.