Big Buddy FAQs

Q: What is the Big Buddy program? 

Big Buddy is a mentorship program started at Queens College in 1989. QC students serve as “Big Buddies” to mentees, children ages 5-12 and engage in academic, cultural, and recreational activities with the kids. 

Q: What are the requirements to be a Big Buddy? 

  • Be a full-time QC undergraduate or graduate student (enrolled for 12+ credits)
  • Be in good academic standing (minimum 2.5 GPA)
  • Experience in tutoring children preferred, but not required
  • Able to work on-site at the Pomonok After-School Program (located on Kissena Blvd. across from Queens College) two weekdays per week throughout the Spring 2025 semester

Q: Do I need to be an education major or have prior tutoring experience?  

All majors are welcome to apply! Experience in tutoring children is preferred, but not required.  

Q: What are the hourly requirements of the Big Buddy mentor role?  

Big Buddy mentors will work 3 hours on two weekdays per week on site, totaling 6 hours. The mentors must commit to hours outside of the site as well: 1 hour per week to create lesson plans and reflections on the sessions, 1 in person orientation at the beginning of the Spring semester, and 4 in person monthly professional development sessions throughout the semester. 

Q: Is the mentor role paid?  

Yes, Big Buddies will earn $17/hour for all the previously listed requirements, paid in two stipend checks at the halfway and end points of the semester.  

Q: Are you currently accepting applications?

Applications are open October 21 – November 10 through this link: https://forms.office.com/r/L2YYsWeCAr

A virtual info session will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024 from 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.

Info Session RSVP Here: https://forms.office.com/r/TKCcBBgBZv

Q: If I have more questions, who should I contact?  

You can email us at bigbuddy@qc.cuny.edu or call us at 718-570-0565. We are also available on campus in Frese Hall, room 102.