Identity area
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South Dakota State University. Minority Peer Mentor Program
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Description area
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The Office of Multicultural Affairs at South Dakota State University develops and coordinates campus initiatives that support multiculturalism within the university community. The office facilitates programs and activities aimed at promoting academic success and enhancing the overall college experience for students from underrepresented backgrounds. It contributes to the university’s broader mission by fostering inclusive social, cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities.
Key functions of the office include providing support services for students of color, coordinating multicultural programming, managing the National Student Exchange and the Minority Peer Mentor programs, and assisting in recruitment efforts focused on underrepresented student populations.
The Minority Student Orientation program serves incoming students who identify as African American, Asian American, American Indian, or Latino. The program provides opportunities for students to build community and connect with university resources.
Cultural organizations affiliated with the Office of Multicultural Affairs include the African Students' Association, Bangladesh Students' Organization, Chinese Students Association, Indian Students' Association, International Relations Club, Arabian Club, Black Student Alliance, Japanese Students' Association, Islamic Cultural Club, Malaysian Students' Association, and the Native American Club. Records related to these and other student organizations can be found under UA 35 Student Organizations.|The Minority Peer Mentor Program is designed to assist new ethnic minority students in transitioning to academic and social life at South Dakota State University and within the Brookings community. The program connects first-year students with upper-class peer mentors to foster supportive relationships that promote academic success, personal development, and engagement with campus resources.
Program goals include fostering intellectual growth, developing academic and time management skills, addressing cultural and interpersonal topics, and supporting student retention and graduation. Peer mentors provide guidance, act as role models, and serve as liaisons to university support services.