NEW BEGINNINGS FOR TRIBAL STUDENTS (NBTS)

Mentorship opportunities for current undergraduate students 

Undergraduate Mentorship & Internships 

NBTS supports undergraduate students through summer internships paired with mentorship from Tribal and Indigenous professionals, with a focus on leadership development, skill-building, and career exploration in natural sciences.  

Students participating in eligible summer internships may receive a $2,000 internship stipend to support their learning and professional growth.  

Application for 2026 Now Open!

About the Internship Experience 

• Internships must be a minimum of 8 weeks 

• Experiences designed to support students build practical understanding of their field through hands-on, real-world learning 

• Interns and mentors gather periodically as a summer cohort to build connection, reflect, and learn together. 

Internships may take place with: 

• Tribal and Indigenous organizations 

• Non-profits or industry partners 

• Off-campus organizations 

• OSU programs or research labs 

Academic credit is not required to receive this funding. 

***NBTS does not provide internships but will support you with recourses on how to secure an internship***

NBTS is a Tribal-serving program rooted in partnership with Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities. While opportunities are open to all eligible OSU students, the program’s design reflects long-standing commitments to addressing barriers faced by Tribal and Indigenous students in natural sciences fields.  

Additional Scholarship & Engagement 

After completing the internship, students may apply for an additional $1,000 stipend 

Students are encouraged to stay engaged with NBTS and may serve as: 

• Program ambassadors 

• Peer mentors  

Mentorship & Community 

Interns are supported by Tribal and Indigenous mentors, which may include:  

• An employer or supervisor 

• An OSU faculty member 

• A community or field expert 

Mentors participate in a free, culturally-informed mentor training provided by OSU. 

Are you interested in Mentoring?  

If you are interested in mentoring an NBTS student, please complete the Mentor Interest Form HERE. 

Youth Mentorship & Leadership 

NBTS creates leadership opportunities for current Oregon State University students to serve as mentors during the Environmental Leadership for Youth (ELY) Camp. Student mentors support high school youth through guidance, encouragement, and shared learning, helping to foster belonging, cultural connection, and leadership. 

OSU Students NBTS ELY Camp Mentors 2025: Left to right- Kelcey, Taylor, Harrisson and Peni  

About the Youth Mentorship Experience 

• OSU students serve as peer mentors for high school youth participating in ELY Camp 

• Mentors support youth during campus activities, field experiences, and reflection spaces 

• The program emphasizes relationship-centered mentorship, cultural care, and positive role modeling 

Leadership Development for Student Mentors 

Through this role, OSU student mentors: 

• Build leadership, communication, and facilitation skills 

• Gain experience working with youth in a culturally grounded, supportive environment 

• Contribute to a collaborative camp community alongside staff, partners, and fellow mentors 

Mentors receive training and preparation prior to camp, ongoing support from NBTS staff throughout the experience, and a $1,500 stipend.  

Community & Care 

Youth mentorship is grounded in care, safety, and respect. Student mentors help create a welcoming environment where high school youth feel supported as they explore college life, environmental learning, and their own leadership potential. 

Become an ELY Camp Youth Mentor  

Are you a current OSU student interested in leadership, community, and supporting Tribal and Indigenous youth?  

No prior mentoring experience required 

Training and support are provided before and during camp. 

Recruitment for ELY Camp Youth Mentors will open Spring 2026. Check back for application details or connect with NBTS to learn more.