SAMs is a peer mentorship program that pairs upper-level varsity student-athletes with first-year and transfer student-athletes. Due to their unique experiences as athletes who train and compete at the varsity level, SAMs are distinctively positioned to help first-year and transfer student-athletes learn how to navigate both sides of the hyphen at Yale College. SAMs are mentors who focus specifically on the challenges of balancing academic, social, and athletic commitments at an Ivy League institution. SAMs should think of themselves as “whole person” mentors, not only as academic or athletic advisors.
Duties and Expectations
SAMs generally begin working for the program during the first-year orientation period in August. They may work up to 5 hours each week during the academic term when classes are in session. SAMs are expected to fulfill the duties of the role to the best of their ability for the duration of their employment, which is a full academic year.
It is expected that each SAM will:
- Support incoming athletes with their academic and athletic transition to Yale College.
- Meet and/or communicate frequently with mentees, which may include holding office hours, study sessions or study breaks, offering one-on-one meetings, attending/promoting competitions, or having a meal with mentees.
- Exercise good judgment in helping to create and sustain a safe and welcoming college environment.
- Model good citizenship, on and off the field, and treat all members of the Yale College community—students, staff, and faculty—with respect.
Each SAM is assigned a group of student-athletes to mentor. Each SAM group will also be part of a larger affiliation called a “SAM FAM” (short for family). The SAM FAMs will provide natural opportunities and programming that assists first-year student-athletes to make connections beyond their individual SAM group or individual athletic team.
Eligibility
To be eligible to serve as a SAM, students must be a rising junior or senior, in good academic standing, and have a strong commitment to sportsmanship.