Working Title: Peer Mentor, College of Business, First Generation Summer Bridge Program - IE
State Role Title: Institutional Employment
Position Type: Institutional Employment
Position Status: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime
College/Division: College of Business
Department: 100674 - COB-Differential Tuition
Pay Rate: Hourly
Specify Range or Amount: $15 per hour
Is this a JMU only position? N/A
Is this a grant-funded position? No
Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? N/A
Beginning Review Date:
About JMU:
Located in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.
General Information:
The JMU College of Business is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated junior or senior undergraduate students to serve as Program Mentors for the inaugural Business Bound Summer Bridge Program. This one-week program (August 10-14, 2025) is designed to support incoming first-generation business students as they transition into college by providing academic preparation, professional development, and a strong sense of community. As a mentor, you will play a key role in guiding and inspiring students, helping them build confidence and connections that will contribute to their success in the College of Business.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Serve as a peer mentor and role model for first-generation business students
• Facilitate small group discussions and team-building exercises
• Provide insight into navigating college life, coursework, and career planning
• Support students in understanding campus resources and business school expectations
• Assist program staff with logistics, workshops, and events as needed
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants
• Up to 20 hours during the program week and a maximum of 20 hours per semester as needed
Qualifications:
• Junior or senior status as of Fall 2025 majoring in any business program
• First-generation college student (First-generation defined as a student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not graduate from a four-year institution.)
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentorship skills
• Passion for helping first-year students succeed
• Ability to share personal college experiences and offer guidance on academic and professional development
• Comfortable facilitating small group discussions and
Additional Posting Information:
Interested students should submit a resume along with a cover letter that includes a brief statement (200-300 words) on why they want to be a mentor and how their experience as a first-generation student in business has shaped their journey.
Deadline to Apply: April 25, 2025
Contact for Questions: Dr. Demetria Henderson, henderdf@jmu.edu, CoB Assistant Dean
Conditions of Employment:
Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).
Students must have a 2.0 or better cumulative GPA.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
EEO Statement:
James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.
We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.
Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.
Reasonable Accommodation:
If you are a student with a disability and need assistance please contact the Office of Disability Services at (540) 568-6705 or disability-svcs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the Office of Disability Services, located in the Student Success Center, Suite 1202 and they will be happy to assist you.