Princeton University Mentoring Program
Mission
Sponsored by the Carl A. Fields Center, the Princeton University Mentoring Program (PUMP) is an internationally certified mentoring program that celebrates the heritage and experiences of students of color. The program is designed to assist first-year students in their academic, cultural, and social acclimation to Princeton. PUMP is open to all students regardless of identity.
PUMP pairs each first-year student (mentee) with a sophomore, junior or senior who serves as a peer mentor to help mentees navigate campus life and create a network of support. Each student mentor/mentee pair is also matched with a Princeton alumni mentor.
Through this program, mentees gain a sense of belonging and community, participate in academic workshops and social activities, increase their knowledge of campus resources, and build connections with peers, campus professionals, and alumni.
Peer Mentor/Mentee Relationship
PUMP offers one-on-one mentoring. Each mentee is paired with a peer mentor based on several factors including intended major, professional interests, hobbies, hometown, race, ethnicity, gender, and languages spoken. Mentors and mentees are encouraged to meet regularly for 3-4 hours per month throughout the academic year.
Peer Mentors are often able to offer guidance on:
Academic Issues (course selection, time management, campus resources and services)
Campus Involvement (organizations, athletics, intramurals, etc.)
Professional Development (internship and summer opportunities, networking)
Relationship Building (with faculty, campus professionals, and alumni)
Social Issues (roommates, friends, family, etc.)
To further enhance the mentor/mentee relationship, PUMP also offers educational workshops, study breaks, and community building events.
Alumni Mentors
Each student mentor/mentee pair is also matched with a Princeton alumni mentor for the duration of the academic year. Alumni mentors can serve as role models, provide opportunities for personal and professional development, and help guide two-three students (peer mentor and mentee(s)) through their academic, social, and cultural journey at Princeton. Alumni mentors are matched based on a combination of factors ranked in the interest forms by alumni mentors, student mentors, and student mentees.
Applications
MENTEE INTEREST FORM
The 2026-2027 mentee interest form will open in August 2026.
PEER MENTOR APPLICATION
The 2026-2027 peer mentor application is closed and will open in Spring 2027.
ALUMNI MENTOR INTEREST FORM
The 2026-2027 alumni mentor interest form will open in Fall 2026.
2026-2027 PUMP Board
Contact Information
Please contact us at pump@princeton.edu for more information or questions.