PRIME Mentors: Peer Retention & Inclusive Mentoring Experience

For Students in Chemistry: Support & Resources

Welcome to the PRIME program! Our team is dedicated to supporting students starting out in their general chemistry and organic chemistry courses. Here's how we are here to help:

Weekly Office Hours: Get personalized help and answers to your questions from experienced chemistry students.
Masterclass Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to strengthen your understanding of key concepts.
Pre-Exam Review Sessions: Join our comprehensive review sessions that use active learning to help prepare for your upcoming exams.
Classroom Support: A mentor attends each section of the introductory chemistry classes to provide in-class support and to ensure they are knowledgeable about what material is being covered.
Social Events: Engage in social events with other student organizations at W&M, offering a chance to meet peers from across the department in a relaxed environment.
Make Connections: Mentors are here to talk about anything chemistry related, whether it be about class material, navigating the ISC, declaring a major, or becoming involved in research.

Our goal is to make your chemistry journey effective and enjoyable by providing the guidance and community you need to succeed, connecting you with peers and mentors to create a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

If you want to learn more about the PRIME program, please email chemmentors@wm.edu or follow us on Instagram: wm.chem.prime

For Prospective Mentors: Join the PRIME Team

Are you an upper-level chemistry student looking to make a difference? Consider joining the PRIME program as a paid mentor to help guide students through the chemistry courses you once navigated yourself. PRIME accepts applications in the spring for the following academic year, with additional applications opened and considered outside this period based on need. A chemistry major is not required, but preference will be given to chemistry majors due to close ties to the department. As a PRIME mentor, you will:

Engage with General/Organic Chemistry Classes: Sit-in and assist as necessary in introductory chemistry classes.
Conduct Workshops and Review Sessions: Plan and lead masterclass workshops and pre-exam review sessions.
Organize Social Events: Collaborate with other chemistry clubs to host social events to foster a greater chemistry community.
Hold weekly office hours: Offer one-on-one assistance and answer questions during dedicated office hours.
Collaborate with chemistry faculty: Work with chemistry faculty to support the program and meet with the team as necessary to plan upcoming events.
Commitment: Dedicate 5-10 hours per week for the semester.
Professionalism: Act with a high level of professionalism and encourage a sense of community and belonging among students.

Becoming a PRIME mentor is a rewarding opportunity to help your students that were once in your shoes, gain valuable mentoring experience, and contribute to a culture of learning and inclusivity within the Chemistry Department at William & Mary.

If you have questions about becoming a mentor, please email chemmentors@wm.edu.