About the Program

The Peer Leader Program began in the mid-1970s as a response to the needs of many incoming international and BIPOC+ students. In Northfield, multicultural support networks of family, friends, churches, and social/cultural institutions were nonexistent then and, to a large degree, are not present outside the Carleton community now.

ISL at Carleton strives to enhance the student experience by providing programming and support that recognizes and advocates for a just and inclusive global community.  

ISL Peer Leaders are sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have done well academically, are active in the Carleton community, are enthusiastic about meeting and assisting new students, while sharing their knowledge and experience. ISL Peer Leaders plan programs and activities for the international community. IPL’s offer first-year students a personal perspective on the experience of living, growing, and succeeding at Carleton, while encouraging diversity, celebrating individual differences, and building lasting conncetions.

Program Objectives

The program offers a variety of services to address the academic, cultural, and professional development of international students at Carleton. The program is designed to assist students in their personal development, to help them define academic goals, and to assist them in establishing and maintaining priorities.

The program has two goals:

  1. Short Term: To assist new students of color and international students in making a successful transition to the college
  2. Long Term: To increase the persistence rate of new first-year students of color and international students

What to expect from your ISL Peer Leader (IPL)

  • To assist new students that represent diverse groups on campus and international students in making a successful transition to the college.
  • To construct weekly communication that best suits the mentee through:
    • One-on-one meetings
    • Small cohort meetings with other mentees
    • Text, email, or other forms of non-physical communication
  • Provide information on resources on campus:
    • Academic
    • Health
    • Social
  • Foster genuine relationships with no expectations rather than being a peer resource.

What to expect being a Mentee

  • Consistent Communication from your OPL:
    • Weekly Communication in the various ways listed above.
  • Support from your IPL, but understanding they are a resource, and not your only support system.
  • Active reciprocation of the efforts of your IPL.
  • Fostering a relationship that best suits you!
  • Required attendance at mentor/mentee events
  • Complete a Survey twice a term (Mid-Term, End of Term) to evaluate your IPL and offer suggestions to better the mentor program.