Finding Your People: How Campus Mentors Support You During Your First Trimester
When I think about what makes Palmer special, it’s not just the academics—it’s the community. Starting chiropractic college is exciting, but we know that when students start the program, they have questions! That’s why we created the Campus Mentor Program: to make sure every student gets answers and support from day one.
Your mentor is here to make sure you don’t have to go it alone. From the moment you arrive at orientation, you are paired with a mentor; someone who has walked this path before. Mentors know what it takes to succeed, and they’re ready to share that knowledge with you.
What Can You Expect From Your Mentor?
Your mentor will reach out to you proactively. You won’t have to wonder who to ask when you have questions about classes, instructors, or even where the best study spots on campus are.
Your mentor will also check in with you. Whether it’s a challenge, hiccup, simple question, or advice about clubs, they’re here to listen and share what worked for them.
Your mentor will help you connect with classmates and the chiropractic community through Palmer Plexus, Palmer’s social platform designed to keep students engaged with each other and the community. Plus, they’ll make sure you know about academic resources like tutoring and PASS sessions.
Mentorship starts at Orientation
If you’re a first-trimester D.C. student, you’ll meet your mentor during orientation. At the end of the day, mentors help you prepare for your first week of classes. For bachelor’s students, the process is similar, but most interactions happen virtually to fit the program’s format.
We want you to feel ready—not just for classes, but for life at Palmer. That first week can be challenging, and mentors are here to make it easier.
Why It Matters
Starting chiropractic college is a big adjustment. You might be living away from home for the first time. You might want to level up on your study habits. Life happens, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to. That’s where mentors shine. They’re not just answering questions, they’re building relationships.
Want to Be a Mentor?
A campus mentor is a work study position that allows you to help other and get paid! You can apply to be a mentor on Palmer’s employment page. This program has grown from a volunteer effort into a formal student service because of the incredible impact it has on our community.
One Last Piece of Advice
If I could share one tip with every new student, it’s this: make sure to connect with Palmer’s Student Academic Support Services. It’s a hidden gem. Once you settle your basic needs like housing, food, and finances, you’ll face new challenges: feeling shy, adjusting study habits, or finding balance during tough parts of the program. This department is here to help you find your rhythm and feel supported every step of the way.
You’re not just starting a graduate program; you’re joining a community. With a campus mentor by your side, you won’t have to navigate it alone.
