Big Sis/Lil Sis Program
The Big Sister/Little Sister mentoring program is designed to strengthen the Ursuline community by fostering meaningful relationships rooted in the mission and values of the Academy. This program supports a smooth and welcoming transition for all freshmen as they begin their high school journey, while also providing juniors with the opportunity to serve as mentors and leaders within our community.
Participation in the Big Sister/Little Sister program is required for all freshmen and optional for juniors, allowing juniors to opt in to ensure the program’s success and meaningful engagement. Students complete interest forms that help guide thoughtful and successful pairings based on shared interests and personalities.
Big Sister/Little Sister pairs are matched within their House, promoting unity across grade levels and enhancing the spirit of House activities throughout the year. This structure allows for a wide variety of pairings and strengthens participation in events such as House meetings and House Competition Day.
Rooted in the Ursuline values of service, courtesy, loyalty, and courage, the program encourages students to build community, form new friendships, and create a lasting sense of sisterhood. Throughout the year, Big Sisters and Little Sisters participate in fun school-sponsored activities, engage in service opportunities, and take part in cherished Ursuline traditions together. Participation in these activities is expected of all Big/Little Sisters.
The year concludes with the Big Sis–Lil Sis Lock-In, held in April, which celebrates the bonds formed throughout the year. This special evening event includes fun activities and shared experiences, allowing sisters to enjoy one another’s company while building community with others. Faculty and staff members serve as chaperones for the event.
OBJECTIVES:
- To help each Freshman Little Sister adjust to the social and learning environments of high school
- To give each Little Sister on-going support and mentoring throughout her years at Ursuline
- To provide Big Sisters with the opportunity to build “trusting relationships” and to develop their leadership skills
- To establish cohesive “families” within each house thereby building community spirit and collaboration
- To spread the Spirit of Ursuline Academy – service, courtesy, loyalty and courage by attitude and action
BENEFITS:
- Ease transition into high school for freshmen class
- Mentors serve as an easily accessible resource and role model
- Provides a comfortable and friendly atmosphere for incoming students
- Helps students to get to know the upperclassman in their house better
- Creates instant “upperclassman friends”
- Creates lasting friendships
- Gives upperclassmen the opportunity to have a lasting impact on their little sisters' lives
Welcome to Student Life!
Two of the Ursuline Core Values are development of the whole person and respect for the uniqueness of the individual. To that end, the Academy strives to provide clubs and organizations that offer a balance of academics, spiritual formation, leadership and fun!
Ursuline offers a wide variety of student organizations and clubs. There is an activity for just about every interest, and lots of opportunities to make new friends and practice leadership skills. Join a sports team, perform in a play, design the musical set...Discover the power within you!