The Black Student Union has brought back their mentor/mentee program this year to create mutually beneficial relationships between upperclassmen and freshmen.

Autumn Moore, vice president of member relations and leader of this initiative, said that the program is rejuvenated this time around with the core goal to help first-year students transition into college life at a predominantly white institution.

“Their priorities are to do their best, to provide a positive atmosphere and to be cautious of how they portray themselves on social media and on campus because the first-year students are looking up to them,” Moore said.

Deja Jones, a sophomore, who signed up to be a mentor, said she hopes the freshmen gain guidance and find comfort in their new home at Loyola.

“I’m ready to meet my mentee,” Jones said. “I’m excited for all the activities, they sound like a lot of fun.”

Shawn Kelly, BSU co-president, said that the potential for this program is great and that freshmen students have a lot to gain from their older mentors.

“It is a really great way to connect our newest members to our oldest members and help our new members stay involved and stay active,” Kelly said.