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 the Pomonok After-School Program (located on Kissena Blvd. across from Queens College) 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 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 3 in person monthly professional development sessions throughout the semester.
Q: Is the mentor role paid?
Yes, Big Buddies will receive a stipend.
Q: Are you currently accepting applications?
We are no longer receiving applications for the Spring 2026 semester. Please check next Fall for updates on Spring 2027.
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.