What is the Peer Mentoring Program?

DCS Tammy Sobotka and Anna Settle received the Provost Scholarship from Western Oregon university.

The first year at a new college holds many challenges. Studies show that students who have a friendly, knowledgeable person to talk to feel more satisfied at the end of the year than those who do not.

The Peer Mentoring Program is a peer support system designed to:

• Provide positive role models
• Help students maintain a positive self image
• Help students learn strategies for improving motivation
• Help students create an environment of empowerment
• Lessen feelings of isolation and alienation
• Help students clarify expectations and responsibilities as a college student
• Teach students how to set realistic short and long-term goals
• Teach good study skills and habits
• Help students get involved in campus organizations and services
• Help students understand the structure, rules and procedures of Southwestern

Who are Peer Mentors and Who do They Serve?

Peer Mentors consist of a team of hard working students who reflect the campus community. They address the needs of first year, transfer, re-entry, and interested continuing students. Peer Mentors assist students in making a successful transition into the community college setting. Their goals are to familiarize students with the multitude of resources available on campus and to help them in making progress toward fulfilling their educational and personal goals.

Peer Mentoring Philosophy

The Peer Mentoring Program's philosophy consists of the following:

• Have high expectations and encourage others to have goals
• Learn survival skills and self-discipline
• Have an appreciation for academic excellence
• Maintain a high degree of integrity
• Work on joint solutions
• Maintain strict confidentiality

What the Peer Mentoring Program Offer

The Peer Mentoring Program offers:

• An immediate support system
• Goal setting strategies
• Information on campus policy and procedures
• Referrals to on- and off-campus services, departments and activities
• College survival skills
• Outreach events
• Quarterly Mentoring and advising
• Quarterly follow-ups
• One-on-one and group sessions

Want to Become a Peer Mentor?

Qualifications:

• Mature, self-motivated, quick learner, able to work with minimum supervision.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of Southwestern campus and programs.
• Minimum GPA of 3.00.
• Successfully completed at least two terms at Southwestern.

Peer Mentors must demonstrate the following characteristics:

• Responsibility
• Professionalism
• Honesty and Integrity
• Respectfulness
• Non-Judgmental
• Maturity

Upon acceptance into the program, students must participate in a practicum of Mentoring training.

If you would like more information about the Peer Mentoring Program, please stop by the Student Support Services Office located in Stensland Hall, or call 888-7421. Ask to speak to B.J., program coordinator.

E-Mail
The Mentoring Program
or
Barbara Johnson