Application Process

STEP welcomes applications from faculty committed to mentoring second-year students through a structured and impactful experience. Each year, the program engages approximately 200 faculty mentors, with a limited number of new mentors recruited annually to fill any available vacancies.  

Applications are open and accepted year-round. STEP has an early action application submission of February 1. Applications submitted by this date are guaranteed review, and eligible candidates will be interviewed for consideration as Faculty Mentors for the upcoming academic year.   

Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria, submit an application, and successfully complete the interview process are placed on the Faculty Mentor waitlist. Each spring, STEP reviews available vacancies and extends offers to candidates on the waitlist for an autumn semester start. Applications from staff or individuals who do not meet full eligibility criteria will be thoughtfully reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with emphasis on demonstrated excellence and alignment with the STEP mission. 

Faculty Mentor appointments are typically communicated between mid-Spring and early Summer as vacancies become available. Assignment priority is based on faculty status and strength of qualifications.   

How To Apply

Interested in becoming a STEP Faculty Mentor?  We invite you to fill out our online application.  

Application Requirements  

• Name, professional title, academic unit and/or college.  

• Teaching or Program Engagement: Description of engagement in university teaching (course number, title, and student enrollment) or leadership in a student success or academic program over the past 3 years.  

• Mentoring Experience: A brief narrative (~150 words) describing your mentoring background.  

• Mentoring Philosophy: A statement (~250 words suggested) that reflects your approach to mentoring and its alignment with STEP’s mission.  

Need More Information?  

Email step@osu.edu and a member of STEP Administration will be in touch.