In-Sight’s Student Mentors
Mission:
Student Mentors are returning In-Sight students who build belonging and confidence by serving as peer leaders, role models, and advocates within the classroom.
Become a Student Mentor at In-Sight!
What is a Student Mentor?
A Student Mentor is a current class-aged student who has participated in one or more photography classes at In-Sight and applies to come back to a class they have already taken. As a Student Mentor, you'll act as an assistant to the instructors, a bridge between students and adults, and a student yourself. Because you've been in the class before, you understand both sides of the classroom.
You are not a teacher, and you don't need to have all the answers. Instead, you'll be a knowledgeable peer and an additional source of encouragement and support for students who are just getting started.
As a Student Mentor, you will:
Participate in class Be an active photographer, shoot alongside students, and share your creative process.
Attend for free Student Mentors are not expected to pay for the class they are mentoring.
Be a bridge Help students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing themselves, and help connect students and instructors.
Build leadership skills Practice communication, mentorship, problem-solving, and responsibility in a real-world setting.
Support instructors Assist with demonstrations, help manage materials, and be an extra set of hands when needed.
Encourage peers Celebrate student work, offer positive feedback, and help create a welcoming, supportive environment.
Earn community service hours Time spent mentoring may count toward your school's community service requirements.
Receive a certificate of achievement for each class you mentor.
Deepen your photography skills while adding meaningful experience to your portfolio, résumé, and college applications.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you should:
Have completed at least one class at In-Sight Photography Project so you're familiar with our systems, expectations, and community.
Have a basic understanding of the material covered in the class you'd like to mentor.
Be enthusiastic about photography, enjoy working with others, and be ready to show up with energy, kindness, and commitment.
No prior teaching experience is needed! We'll prepare and support you every step of the way.
Student Mentors are selected on a per-class basis. Applying does not guarantee placement, but all applicants will be considered and notified.
How to Apply
Check upcoming classes Visit our website to see which classes are accepting Student Mentor applications.
Complete the online application Tell us about your In-Sight experience, why you want to mentor, what you hope to gain from the experience, and what you'd like to bring to the class.
Connect with us Have a conversation with In-Sight staff to learn more about your goals and the needs of the class.
Get confirmed and prepared If selected, you'll receive all the details about class dates, times, expectations, and how to prepare.
Community Service Hours
Hours spent at In-Sight Photography Project as a Student Mentor during class sessions may be eligible to count toward your school's community service requirements. In-Sight can provide documentation of your hours upon request.
Community service policies vary by school. Please check with your school or program coordinator to confirm that In-Sight Student Mentor hours qualify before you apply.
Have questions? Reach out to Rachel Boettcher, In-Sight’s Operations and Program Manager at rachelb@insight-photography.org