Campus Connections FAQs

Campus Connections is open to UCCS undergraduate and graduate students. First priority for mentors is given to students in the Human Services and Student Affairs in Higher Education  programs. Graduate students in the Department of Counseling and Human Services and Student Affairs in Higher Education may also participate. See How to Apply for more information.

Community youth participants are students in middle schools from Colorado Springs and surrounding areas in El Paso County. Some Campus Connections youth may have committed minor criminal offenses; others are coping with difficult economic, family, school, social, and behavior concerns that would benefit from a supportive and encouraging environment.

Currently, our main referral partner is District 11. To find out how to refer a youth from District 11, contact us via cconnect@uccs.edu. 

Campus Connections mentors are undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs from a variety of majors and programs.

1. Complete an online or in-person information session. 
2. Fill out a Mentor Application. Available here. 
3. Send your application to the program manager by the posted deadline. 
4. Register for the course with a permission code received upon acceptance.
5. Complete background checks!

1. Pass background checks required by referral partners and UCCS. 
2. Attend Campus Connections every week throughout the semester (this includes being on time and staying the entire time from pre-lab and post-lab).
3. Uphold core values and ethics of the Campus Connections Program.
4. Have an open and respectful attitude towards diverse viewpoints, perspectives and experiences, including those that may be different from your own.
5. Be active and engaged with youth and provide support and encouragement.

Please view the Mentor Nightly Schedule for an example of the typical schedule.* 

*May change based on room availability and meal timing.