Georgia Education Mentorship (GEM) Program

Georgia Education Mentorship (GEM) Program

Center for Engaged Learning

202 N. Clarke Street, Room 101

Campus Box 101

http://www.gcsu.edu/gem

478-445-1227

Coordinator of Leadership Programs: John Bowen john.bowen@gcsu.edu

In the Georgia Education Mentorship (GEM) Program, Georgia College students are matched with leaders -- many of whom are members of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors -- in fields such as busienss, education, politics, healthcare, law and industry.  These executives serve as mentors for participating students, supporting their personal and professional growth by providing opportunities for them to learn about the principles and practices of effective leadership that benefit the professional world and the community.

Throughout the year, participating students also take part in leadership and professional development opportunities offered by the GEM program.  These events and activities allow studenst to build relationships with their fellow participants, gain a better understanding of leadership concepts, discuss the lessons learned from their mentorship and develop skills that will help them meet current and future leadership challenges.

Members who successfully completet he program will attend a special closing ceremony in their honor and receive an award to recognize participation and a cord to be worn at graduation.

Application Information

GEM is a year-long program experience completed by students as a cohort.  Students from all disciplines are invited to apply.  Application deadlines and instructions can be found at: www.gcsu.edu/gem

Applicants must:

• be of sophomore, junior, or senior standing by the anticipated start of their program experience
• have a minimum GPA of 3.0
• be able to take LEAD 2100: Georgia Education Mentorship (1 credit hour) during the fall and spring semesters of their participation.  (LEAD 2100 is repeatable for credit, and students will earn one credit hour each semester of successful completion of the course.)
• be able to participate in program events and activities during the fall and spring semesters of their partiticpation
• be able to secure transportation for shadowing visits
• gain acceptance to the program through a selection process that includes the submission of an application packet adn participation in an interview

Established in 2002 and initial funded by the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation (www.woodruff.org), GEM is a creative partnership between Georgia College and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce (www.gachamber.com). Since the program's inception, over 350 students have participated.

To learn more or apply, visit www.gcsu.edu/gem or contact John Bowen, coordinator of leadership programs, at 478-445-1227 or john.bowen@gcsu.edu.