Teamwork makes the dream work
By Tara Prindle
Moving to a new college can be a difficult transition, especially during a pandemic. One student organization seeks to help transfer students make the adjustment while taking the necessary social distancing precautions.
Transfer Experience and Advising Mentors (TEAM) is a 10-week program that connects new transfer students with student mentors who previously transferred to Mizzou. Through one-on-one mentoring, weekly group meetings, socials and service projects, TEAM helps transfer students develop professionally, academically and personally.
“Socially, TEAM allowed me to find people that I could relate to quickly,” said Michelle Maile.
A senior, Maile got involved with TEAM in 2017 after getting an email for transfer student study groups. She thought she could meet friends, use the help and get some snacks. She later became a mentor and now works on the TEAM executive board.
“Academically, meeting other transfer students in the same major as you helps a lot with your classes and gives you study buddies,” Maile said.
Sophomore Walker Turner was a mentee last semester and now serves as a mentor. He recalls how his mentor taught him to start building new relationships at Mizzou.
“I’ve looked up to my mentor in so many different ways it is unbelievable,” Turner said. “One professional aspect he taught me about was how to approach networking. He also taught me what standards I should hold myself to as a college student. The most important standard being sticking to goals even when stress, as well as pressure, are high.”
TEAM has adapted to the pandemic. Mentees and mentors may choose to meet in-person, wearing face coverings, or over Zoom. Most professional development events are held virtually.
TEAM has also organized numerous social events where participants were able to practice social distancing. The group organized a campus-wide scavenger hunt and as well as a hike at Rock Bridge State Park.
Transfer students who would like to get involved with TEAM can apply to be paired with a mentor. TEAM meets at 5 p.m. Wednesdays. For more information, visit TEAM on Engage.