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International Peer Leader Program
International Peer Leaders (IPLs) mentor a group of new graduate international students by answering questions before and after their arrival and helping welcome them to the W&M community.
IPLs introduce new students to the university from a student perspective. The advice and support peer leaders give to new students are invaluable-- they provide one of the most important parts of welcoming our new students!
Apply to be an International Peer Leader in Summer & Fall 2025!
Love William & Mary? Want to welcome new international students to the university? The Office of International Students, Scholars & Programs (ISSP) is seeking enthusiastic graduate students to serve as International Peer Leaders to provide pre-arrival support and mentoring for incoming international students.
As an International Peer Leader (IPL), you will:
- Assist W&M’s newest international students as they transition to life in the U.S.
- Serve as a Peer Leader for a group of new graduate international students by providing pre-arrival support and mentoring over the summer
- Stay in touch with students in your group via virtual platforms (e.g., email, text, video chat) before they arrive and answer their questions about life at William & Mary
- Check-in with your group of students at least 3 times (via email or other forms of communication) during the Fall 2025 semester
There may be opportunities for Peer Leaders to participate in the in-person social events. These opportunities will be advertised to Peer Leaders during the summer.
Why become an International Peer Leader (IPL)? Share in these benefits:
- Leadership: Enhance your advising and leadership experience
- Equity & Inclusion: Develop intercultural competencies through working with a diverse student population.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Gain skills to build collaborative relationships with students. Strengthen ability to work with diverse populations.
- Critical Thinking: Opportunities to analyze issues, make decisions, and overcome problems.
International Peer Leaders (IPLs) must be:
- Able to work comfortably with a diverse group of students
- Professional and enthusiastic
- An ambassador for W&M (e.g., knowledgeable and excited about W&M; serve as a role model to the students)
- Available to serve as Peer Leaders over the summer
Application Timeline & Calendar for Summer & Fall 2025
| Monday, February 10 | |
| Sunday, March 16 at 11:59pm EDT | Peer Leader Applications Due |
| Wednesday, March 19 | Peer Leader Decision Notifications |
| Wednesday, March 26 | Peer Leader Acceptance Due |
| Peer Leader Training | |
| June-August | Communicate with and provide pre-arrival support to a group of incoming international students |
| Fall 2025 semester | Check-in at least 3 times with your students |
Thank you for your interest in serving as an International Peer Leader! Questions? Please contact Lauren Devan.