EFYE 2015 Peer Mentoring as a Way to Support Students Thrive

500 The size of our student body 45 The number of countries our students represent 28 The number of languages spoken around campus AUR students from top row: Blair (war veteran from Texas), Sharon (India), Nohea (Hawaii ), Monica (Latvia), Roberto (Venezuela). AUR students from top row: Alex (Canada), Soojeong (South Korea), Don (Nigeria), Stefani (Portugal/South Africa), Karim (Egypt). An International Community According to the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) AUR is international and promotes diversity. 84% of seniors included diverse perspectives (different races, religions, genders, political beliefs) in class discussions or writing assignments.

Conclusions and actions PMs disappear after a few weeks Tensions between PMs and students Not enough support from PMs Better define PMs’ role (friendly but not friends) PMs will attend class PMs will work with other groups on campus PMs will do more reach out work

#9 Peer Mentor scheme Assessment: Assessment Methods: 1) Focus group sessions with PMs 2 Exit questionnaire

Comparative Results

Feedback from Peer Mentors (a two way personal growth)) What personal benefits have you gained from being a peer mentor? “As a peer mentor, I feel that I’ve gained a naturally stronger psychological perspective, in the sense that I’ve grown much better at understanding subtle messages or feelings from students, […] and I’ve gotten much better at dealing with different mixes of energy and emotion” “ the ability to think on my feet concerning subject teaching and classroom lecturing”

How beneficial do you think the Peer Mentor program is to FTIC students and to what extent? “I do think that the Peer Mentor Program is extremely beneficial to FTIC students because it is what allows them to slowly know AUR through the guidance of those who have gone through that delicate period of transition from high school to college and that without it FYS would not be as effective and efficient as it is today”

PMs recruitment, training and role Name GPA: 1.What were your experiences as a first-year student? (What were the ‘surprises’?) 2.What did you learn that could help other new students? 3.What does AUR mean to you? 4.What skills and personal qualities do you possess that you think would make you a successful Peer Mentor. 5.For what things would you appreciate more information and training before starting this job? 6.What personal trait do you think would cause you the greatest challenge in performing this job and how would you overcome it? 7.List any membership of associations/organizations/clubs: 8.List any teaching or tutoring experience you have had: 9.What did you enjoy most about your FYS 101 class? 10.Why do you want to be a Peer Mentor? 11.What else would you like us to know about you?

REQUIREMENTS Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher Must have taken FYS 101 Be in good disciplinary standing Relate well with students, staff and faculty Have strong interpersonal communication skills Be a team player Be reliable, responsible, confident and CONFIDENTIAL Maintain the highest ethical and professional conduct at all times

SOCIALIZATION ORIENTATION MENTORING ADVISING SUPERVISION COORDINATION and LEADERSHIP ROLE-MODELING

Peer Mentors training Class Overview First Year Students are… Your role Role model, code of conduct Role playing – difficult scenario Goal setting End of day reflection

Work commitment Work approximately 10 hours a week Attend training sessions Attend all class meetings Pre-arrival activities – Postcard and s Plan and develop orientation activities Be available to students for consultation and support Attend weekly meetings with FYP director Organize two student-oriented workshops per semester Liaise with students according to necessities

Peer Mentors in the classroom. Give PMs 5 minutes at the beginning of every class to advertise events on Campus. PMs as a resource. PMs as experienced students. Support with in class activities. Offer out of class support at the end of session

MEET THE PEER MENTORS

QUESTIONS?