Mentorship programs
Making connections with other students early—sometimes even before the semester begins—is an important way for new students to build their community on campus. NAU offers a variety of leadership, mentoring, and academic programs to get a jump-start on your college experience.
Summer programs
Starting college is a big transition, and summer programs can help you arrive prepared, connected, and confident. Whether you're looking to build leadership skills, strengthen your academic foundation, or connect with peers before the semester begins, these opportunities are designed to support your success from day one.
EDGE Leadership Program
The Edge Leadership Experience is a four-day program that welcomes first-year students to campus, builds leadership skills, and introduces engagement opportunities to support a successful transition into college. Through hands-on activities and community-building experiences, students are encouraged to grow in confidence, connection, and leadership.
Star Program
The Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Scholarship Program supports first-year, first-generation, income-eligible Arizona residents in their transition from high school to NAU. Through a summer residential experience, students take college-credit courses, build peer and mentoring relationships, and gain access to campus resources that prepare them to succeed and thrive in their first year.
First-Year Intensive Transition (FIT)
The NAU FIT Program is a one-week pre-semester experience for new students enrolled in BIO 181, CHM 151, AST 180, or PSY 101 that supports their academic momentum. Students move-in early the week before fall classes begin and get a preview of college academics through lectures, labs, and other experiences. They will also build social connections through peer mentorship and group activities.
Mentoring programs
NAU’s mentoring programs connect Lumberjacks with trained student mentors who offer guidance, friendship, and real help navigating college life. Whether you're a first-year student, a transfer student, or someone looking for community and support, our mentoring teams are here to walk with you through your journey.
Mentors are experienced Lumberjacks who know what it feels like to start something new. They share campus knowledge, help you make connections, and cheer you on as you hit your goals. Every program is free, welcoming, and built to help students feel at home at NAU.
NAU offers several different mentoring programs for a wide variety of students. For more information on specific programs and to get involved, contact mentoring@nau.edu.
First Scholars Program
First Scholars aims to dramatically increase the graduation rate of NAU students who will be the first in their families to earn a four-year degree. Our four-year program offers an annual scholarship, one-on-one progressive mentoring, and personal development and enrichment through workshops and service-learning opportunities.
Who is First Scholars for?
First Scholars is available to first-generation Arizona residents who meet certain requirements.
Jacks State
Part of the Peer Jacks family of mentorship programs, Jacks State is a peer mentoring program designed to assist students with their transition to NAU wherever they are, helping them feel connected to the NAU community. Peer mentors, who are statewide students themselves, provide individualized support, encouragement, access to resources, and accountability.
Who is Jacks State for?
Jacks State is available to students studying at select NAU statewide campuses or as part of Universal Admissions.
Indigenous Mentoring
Indigenous Student Success (OISS) Indige-Peer Mentors (IPMs) outreach to new incoming Indigenous students to provide strategies for success, information about campus resources, ideas to acclimate to campus life, and tips for making new friends.
Who is OISS for?
For students who identify as Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian.
Mountain Jacks
Part of the Peer Jacks family of mentorship programs, Mountain Jacks assists NAU students in making connections and building community through one-on-one mentoring and events. The program provides educational and social opportunities that lead to academic and personal success. Participating in the program enhances students’ first-year experience, sense of belonging, and transition to the university.
Who is Mountain Jacks for?
Mountain Jacks is available to first-year students at NAU.
Student Support Services
Student Support Services (SSS) provides comprehensive guidance and support to first-year and other eligible students. The program offers personalized mentoring, coaching, and a strong sense of community. Participants receive help with key areas such as tutoring, course planning, financial literacy, FAFSA, and even graduate school admissions. We take a holistic approach, empowering our students to reach their full potential.
Who is SSS for?
SSS is available to NAU students who are first-generation, income-eligible, or who have a disability.
Transfer Jacks Mentoring
Smoothly transitioning to a new school can be tough, but at NAU, we make it easier. As part of the Peer Jacks family of mentorship programs, Transfer Jacks offers mentoring and events that help students connect with their peers and campus resources. Say goodbye to academic, social, and personal challenges and hello to a thriving community.
Who is Transfer Jacks for?
Transfer Jacks is available to students transferring to NAU from another college or university.
Vet Jacks
Experience a warm and encouraging community at NAU’s Veteran Success Center (VSC) Vet Jacks program. We’re here to help veterans seamlessly transition from military life to the college environment, connecting them with knowledgeable peers who can provide guidance, support, and valuable information.
Who is Vet Jacks for?
Vet Jacks is available to students who identify as veterans or are transitioning from military life to NAU.
Why mentoring matters
Mentorship at NAU is built to help students feel connected, confident, and supported.
Mentors help students:
- Build friendships and find community
- Navigate academics and campus resources
- Set goals and stay on track
- Reduce stress and build belonging
- Explore involvement and leadership opportunities
Students who meet with mentors feel more grounded, make stronger connections, and move through college with greater clarity and purpose.
Parents trust mentoring because it gives their students a built-in support network and someone who checks in consistently.