The Buffett Institute’s Atlas Peer Mentorship Program is dedicated to developing the next generation of global leaders by empowering students to reach their fullest potential while at Northwestern University.
We accomplish this by connecting first-year undergraduates to second-, third- and fourth-year peer mentors and providing a space for students to bring their unique identities and experiences to the Northwestern community.
We welcome applications from all undergraduate students. This program's curriculum and mentorship model are tailored to address the unique needs of students who are on a F-1 or J-1 student visa and receive need-based aid or otherwise identify as a lower-income student in the Northwestern campus context.
Atlas offers resources and social events throughout the academic year, centered in the Atlas student lounge on the ground floor of the Buffett Institute (720 University Place). Our weekly Chai & Chat gatherings provide a casual setting for students to share and build community. Upcoming sessions are listed on PlanIt Purple. Atlas also facilitates exclusive opportunities to interact with global affairs leaders visiting the Institute, providing students with real-world insights that directly contribute to their personal and professional development as Northwestern students and future global leaders.
Atlas regularly collaborates with campus partners, including the Office of International Student & Scholar Services.
2025 application deadline: May 8
Atlas Mentors play an essential role in supporting first-year students throughout the academic year. As a mentor, you will guide students in their academic and personal journeys, foster a strong sense of community and contribute to a welcoming campus environment. This role also involves leading activities, shaping program curriculum and identifying improvements. Mentoring is a rewarding way to share your experiences while honing leadership, communication and problem-solving skills in a global context.
Ideal mentors are those who are willing to give back to the international student community at Northwestern.
Mentor Expectations
Mentors are hired into hourly positions at $16.20 an hour and are expected to work 5 to 7 hours per week throughout the 2025–2026 academic year when classes are in session. The following activities comprise that time:
- Attend mandatory mentors training during fall quarter
- Be responsive and engaged with mentees, checking in at least biweekly
- Participate in programming, including weekly Chai & Chats and quarterly Atlas mentor and mentee events, as academic schedule allows, including:
- Mentor Kick-Off: Thursday, June 5 from 5:00–6:30 p.m.
- Mentor Training: Saturday, September 20 (time TBD)
- Matching Day: Friday, October 3 from 4:00–6:00 p.m.
- Winter Quarter Lunch: Friday, February 13 from 12:00–1:30 p.m.
- Spring Quarter Lunch: Friday, May 1 from 12:00–1:30 p.m.
- Participate in biweekly mentors meeting with Atlas program leadership
- Complete special projects, such as developing a new resource or program
Mentor Eligibility Requirements
To serve as a mentor, students must be:
- A rising second-, third- or fourth-year full-time undergraduate student residing on or near Northwestern's Evanston or Chicago campuses throughout the 2025–2026 academic year
- In good academic and disciplinary standing
- Interested in promoting the international student community on campus
Mentor Application Process
The 2025–2026 mentor application deadline is May 8, 2025. Applicants must complete the online application form. You may view a PDF of the application before applying.
If you are selected to move to the second stage of the application process, you will be asked to participate in an online group interview.
Atlas Mentees are first-year undergraduates looking for guidance, support and community as they enter their academic and personal journeys at Northwestern. Through the Atlas Peer Mentorship Program, mentees are paired with experienced students who provide advice, share resources and help ease the transition to college life in the U.S. The program offers a supportive space to connect with peers, develop confidence and explore opportunities for personal and academic growth. By joining as a mentee, you’ll gain valuable insights, build friendships and become part of a strong international student community.
Mentee Expectations
- Be responsive and engaged with mentor(s), checking in at least biweekly
- Participate in programming, including weekly Chai & Chats and quarterly Atlas mentor and mentee events, as academic schedule allows, including:
- Matching Day: Friday, October 3 from 4:00–6:00 p.m.
- Winter Quarter Lunch: Friday, February 13 from 12:00–1:30 p.m.
- Spring Quarter Lunch: Friday, May 1 from 12:00–1:30 p.m.
Mentee Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a first-year undergraduate enrolled on Northwestern’s Evanston campus
Mentee Application Process
The application to become an Atlas Mentee for the 2025–2026 academic year will open during International Wildcat Welcome!
If you have any questions, please contact:
- Grace Lewis, the Buffett Institute’s Undergraduate Program Coordinator
- Mira Henchi and Renato de Souza Cardoso, the Atlas program’s student leaders
Atlas International Undergraduate Student Lounge
The lounge provides a home base for students in the Atlas program, but is open to all international undergraduate students. Students may use it as a study or social gathering space and are welcome to use the television (equipped with a Roku and several streaming subscriptions) to host a movie or sports watch party.
- Location: Ground Floor, 720 University Place
- Hours: Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. when classes are in session