Peer Mentoring
The Honors College offers peer mentoring support to new first-year and transfer students. The program was created by a group of Honors students in 2000 and has been an annual student-led initiative ever since. It also served as the pilot for our university-wide peer mentoring program.
The Honors Peer Mentoring Program is distinguished for the personalized support it provides new Honors students. A team of 2-3 trained mentors works closely with a group of approximately 6-8 new students, organized by academic major or another area of common interest. New students “learn the ropes” from experienced students, who benefit from the opportunity to develop effective leadership skills.
The primary goal of the program is to assist new students as they embark upon their college experience at SUNY Brockport. The hallmark feature of the program is that it is students helping students.
How it Works
- Each student entering the Honors Program is matched with one or more peer mentors during their first semester at Brockport.
- Peer mentors are experienced Honors students who have volunteered to participate in the program.
- Peer mentors were once the “new” students who benefited from the peer mentoring experience and now they are “giving back” to the program.
Peer Mentors Help Students
- Navigate the campus
- Learn about library and research facilities
- Share tips on improving study skills
- Share the “inside scoop” about Brockport
“Being a peer mentor for the Honors College has pushed me out of my comfort zone while also forming strong connections with my peers. I enjoy being able to share my experiences in the Honors College while and answering any questions my mentees may have. As a result, I have learned how to better communicate with people in a way that makes the feel more at ease, especially in a new and unfamiliar environment.” Emma Hartman