GW Housing Programs is launching a new mentorship program, pairing undergraduate seniors with graduate students who can provide advice about living in “the real world” and graduate school.

Seniors will be able to consult with graduate students on how to prepare themselves for the last months of college, and the future ahead both in graduate school and professionally. The department will pair students based on mutual interests and be able to help students with writing a thesis, planning a career and applying for graduate school.

“Our plan is to pair [Hall on Virginia Avenue] graduate students with undergraduate students living in our third- and fourth-year buildings including South Hall based on their majors and career interest,” said Vernon William, the assistant director for third- and fourth-year housing and graduate housing. “We are hoping these interactions will be beneficial in regards to entrance exams, admissions essays, advice, and other useful lifelong skills.”

Vernon said they still have a lot of planning to do and the initiative is still in its early developmental stages.

“The goal is to provide another resource for students as they prepare for graduate school. GW graduate students are knowledgeable and bring a wide-range of skills and experiences that we are attempting to cultivate in our undergraduate population outside of the classroom. Hopefully, residents will see the benefit of talking with and learning from students that were in their shoes not too long ago,” he said.

Students interviewed had differing views on the program’s potential.

“It would be great, they know what the experience is like, moving on from college,” said Senior Ashley Meyn.

Senior Elena Posthumus, though, suggested she already had graduate students to ask for advice.

“I am sure graduate students have a lot of good advice, but I have a lot of friends in grad school. Most of my friends graduated last year so if I need help I will call them.” she said, adding that “The program would be helpful to some people.”

First-year law student Chanell Autrey seemed willing to participate in the program.

“I got help from graduate students when I was a senior on law school admissions,” Autrey said. “I could be helpful to a senior because I went through the process of finishing college. I could help a senior make the smooth transition to post graduate life.”