Apply to be a Chicago Quarter Honors Practicum Mentor and lead 2025 Freshmen as they transition to Chicago and DePaul! Honors Practicum Mentor (HPM) is the new title of Honors Chicago Quarter Mentors. This paid position pairs you with a faculty member and staff professional to create a teaching team for a Fall quarter Honors Discover Chicago or Honors Explore Chicago course.
Learn more about this paid position by reading the Honors Practicum Mentor (HPM) FAQ below.
Honors Practicum Mentor (HPM) FAQ
General Information
What is the Honors Practicum Mentor position?
The HPM role involves working with first-year Honors students in their Chicago Quarter classes and delivering the Honors Practicum curriculum. HPMs collaborate with a DePaul staff member (the Staff Professional) to design and deliver short, discuss-based sessions on topics including the value of a liberal arts education; academic advising; mindfulness and mental health; and diversity, equity, and inclusion, among others.
How is the Honors Practicum Mentor position different from the Chicago Quarter Mentor position?
The HPM role serves Honors CQ classes (HON 110/111), while the CQM role serves Liberal Studies CQ classes (LSP 110/111). HPMs facilitate the Honors Practicum curriculum whereas CQMs facilitate the Common Hour curriculum. HPMs also begin working with their students in August, performing the role formerly held by Honors Advocates.
What is the time commitment?
HPMs work from spring to the end of fall quarter, dedicating 6-7 hours per week during the fall quarter. Additionally, they must attend required training sessions, class meetings, and excursions.
What can I gain from this position?
As an HPM, you will:
- Develop leadership skills.
- Form strong connections with first-year students, faculty, and Honors Program staff.
- Earn valuable experience for your resume and future professional goals.
- Fulfill the “Leadership” requirement for Honors Distinction.
Will I be working with other students in this role?
Yes! You’ll make meaningful connections with first-year Honors students as a friend and mentor.
How does the HPM position compare to the Honors Advocate position?
The Honors Advocate program has been discontinued. Honors Practicum Mentors will provide the late-summer support to incoming students that was formerly the responsibility of Honors Advocates. HPMs will also organize at least one social activity outside of their Chicago Quarter class and provide ongoing support via email, text, and/or in-person meetings to mentor
Application Process
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate student for Fall 2025.
- Be a member of DePaul’s University Honors Program.
- Meet the qualifications outlined in the job description, including communication and facilitation skills.
Can I apply if I’m graduating soon?
To be eligible, you must be a full-time undergraduate student during Fall 2025. If you’re graduating before Fall 2025, you cannot apply for this role.
Can I apply for both the Honors Practicum Mentor and the Chicago Quarter Mentor positions?
Yes, but if selected, you may only serve in one of the roles. Each position has a separate application and interview process.
Do I need to apply again if I am a returning Honors Practicum Mentor?
Yes.
When is my application due and what must it include?
Submit your application by Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST, with:
- A resume and cover letter titled with your first and last name.
- A brief explanation in your cover letter about your interest and qualifications for the role.
Training and Required Dates
Are training sessions required?
Yes. All hired HPMs must attend all of the following meetings:
- April 4, 2025: Hiring Meeting (1–3 PM CST, Lincoln Park Campus).
- May 2, 9, 16, 2025: Training (1–5 PM CST, Lincoln Park Campus).
- August 28, 2025: Pre-quarter Training (2–4 PM CST, via Zoom).
Do returning Honors Practicum Mentors have to attend training sessions?
Yes. Training sessions will cover any changes and updates made to the Honors Practicum curriculum and provide an opportunity for HPMs to get to know their Staff Pros.
What if I have a scheduling conflict with training?
If you’re unable to attend a required training session, notify the Honors Program as soon as possible to discuss alternative arrangements. Missing multiple sessions may disqualify you from the role.
Responsibilities
Is the Honors Practicum Mentor required to attend Chicago Quarter class sessions throughout the quarter?
Yes. Class time is part of your weekly workload distribution.
Will I need to prepare my own Practicum content?
The Honors Program provides a blueprint for each module, but you will need to collaborate with your teaching team to adapt and enhance the content based on your class’s needs.
What happens if sensitive topics come up in class?
As an HPM, you’ll receive training on facilitating discussions on sensitive topics. You’re expected to create a respectful and inclusive classroom environment and adjust your approach as needed.
Are Honors Practicum Mentors required to grade student work?
No. There are no homework assignments attached to the Honors Practicum Curriculum, and thus no assignments to grade. All grading is completed by the class’s faculty member.
Compensation
What is the total stipend for this position?
- $400 for completing spring training (distributed upon completion).
- $1,750 for fall quarter work (distributed throughout the term).
Workload and Expectations
How much time will I spend on this job each week?
During fall quarter, you’ll work 6–7 hours per week, including time in class, preparing lessons, and mentoring students.
Do I need to be available for every class session?
Yes, you’re expected to attend the entirety of each class session and all excursions.
Other Questions
What support will I receive in this role?
You’ll have access to support from your Staff Professional, faculty member, and the Honors Program staff throughout the training and fall quarter. You will also participate in an ongoing discussion with your fellow HPMs via Microsoft Teams.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Reach out to the University Honors Program for additional information at HonorsCQ@depaul.edu.
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