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 5-13 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 a QCH After-School Program located near Queens College (either in P.S. 201 or Queens College School of Math, Science, and Technology) two weekdays per week throughout the Spring 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 also commit to a 1 hour in-person orientation at the beginning of the Spring semester.
Q: Is the mentor role paid?
Yes, Big Buddies will receive a stipend.
Q: Are you currently accepting applications?
Applications for Spring 2027 are open from October 19 to November 8, 2026. Click here to access the application when it is open!
Q: If I have more questions, who should I contact?
You can email us at bigbuddy@qc.cuny.edu, call us at 718-570-0565, or visit us at Queens College in Frese Hall, Room 102.