Carnegie Mellon University

Women in IS

Women in IS is a space for women, genderqueer, and nonbinary Information Systems students. This group is aimed at uplifting the experiences of all underrepresented genders and is a place for open expression and safety. 

Women in IS aims to plan events and lead outreach to build community and encourage success for all CMU IS students. One of our most successful initiatives to date is our peer mentoring program.

Women in IS Mentoring Program

Mission Statement

The Women in IS Peer Mentoring Program is designed to provide mentorship and foster connections for first-year and transfer students in the Undergraduate Information Systems Program to provide support and resources that will increase their success and engagement as they transition to the university community and as they develop personally, academically, and professionally.

 

Goal of the program

The goal of the program is to empower students in the program to realize their full potential at Carnegie Mellon and beyond through facilitating mentorship relationships, providing opportunities for networking and leadership development, and contributing to their personal and professional growth.

 

Objectives:

  • Provide a resource for incoming first-year and transfer students in the IS program to feel a sense of belonging in the IS program and CMU community
  • Assist first-year students in learning successful strategies for navigating the IS and CMU landscape
  • Encourage positive mentoring relationships through activities and guidance from the IS academic advisors
  • Facilitate networking activities among peer mentors and mentees, including outside speakers and alumnae events
  • Encourage team building and leadership development among mentors and mentees

 

Mentor qualifications and responsibilities:

Any current freshman, sophomore, or junior majoring in Information Systems may apply to serve as a mentor in the program.

Mentors will play a vital role in assisting first-year students adjust to and engage with the CMU and IS communities. Responsibilities include:

  • Initiate contact with mentee(s) within 10 days of being matched
  • Maintain at least bi-weekly contact with mentee(s) (can be via email, phone, Zoom or in person)
  • Attend at least one IS program event each month (these include social events, speakers, outings, etc.)
  • Attend at least one university sponsored event with your mentee(s) each semester
  • Stay in contact with the IS academic advisors as needed
  • Complete an end-of-semester assessment