The Underrepresented Students in Sustainability (USS) Mentoring Program is designed to make mentoring opportunities more accessible to undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds exploring careers in sustainability & the environment.

Underrepresented Students in Sustainability (USS)

Students at the University of Iowa proposed USS as a resource for underrepresented students interested in environmental sustainability. USS will connect students with qualified mentors interested in providing guidance and advocacy for the next generation of leaders in the field. USS has three primary goals:

Bridging the gap between underrepresented students and qualified professionals who share an interest in environmental sustainability.

Offering a support system and increasing retention for underrepresented students in sustainability-oriented fields.

Preparing underrepresented students to join the next generation of leaders in sustainability & the environment.

For Students 

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Be a currently enrolled student at the University of Iowa

Minimum GPA of 2.5*

*Students with a GPA below 2.5 are encouraged to apply and may submit a short explanation of their circumstances.

Preference will be given to students who:

Identify with a group that is underrepresented in environmental sustainability.

Come from economically, geographically, or educationally disadvantaged background.

Have demonstrated interest in environmental justice and working with underserved populations.

Apply to be a USS Mentee!

Fall 2024 application deadline is Wednesday, September 18.

For Mentors 

Mentoring Guidelines

All professors with expertise in environmental sustainability are encouraged to join the program.

Mentors are required to meet with their students for an hour (at least) once a month.

At meetings, mentors and students are encouraged to discuss their experiences, goals, and future plans. Mentors should keep in mind the goals of USS: aiming to build relationships, to offer a system of support, and to prepare students for the future.

Sign up to be a USS Mentor!

Fall 2024 application deadline is Wednesday, September 18.

Program Schedule

September

• Application deadline ends
• Mentors and mentees paired and introduced by OSE staff (late September)
• Social event for mentors and mentees to meet (late September)

October

• Professional Development event
• Group Mentoring Session
• OSE check-in with program participants via email
• Mentor/mentee meet at least once

November

• Social or Professional Development event
• Group Mentoring Session
• Optional career workshop for mentees
• Mentor/mentee meet at least once

December

• Complete Mid-Year Survey
• Winter break begins
• Mentor/mentee meet

January

• Winter break ends 
• Mentor/mentee meet

February

• Social Event
• Group Mentoring Session
• Mentor/mentee meet

March

• Professional Development event
• Group Mentoring Session
• Optional sustainability career forum
• Mentor/mentee meet at least once

April

• Social or Professional Development Event
• Group Mentoring Session
• Mentor/mentee meet (anytime)

May

• Complete End-of-year Survey