Peer Helper Program

The peer helper program pairs Aboriginal upper year students with first year Aboriginal students, to encourage spiritual, mental, physical and emotional support during their first transition year.   In so doing, the program hopes to enhance the students’ university experience, encourage retention and promote balance.

Several resources, supports and methods are implemented to assist new students with confidence building and adjusting to university life.  These include but are not limited to:

• connecting one-to-one with upper year Aboriginal students
• having a point of contact to answer your questions
• receiving assistance navigating the university and its resources
• periodic check-ins with Mentor and Aboriginal Advisor
• academic skills and workshops including: communication, time-management, scheduling, priority setting, writing, lab reports, preparing for exams (mid-terms and finals), note-taking, test taking, resume writing, interview skills, procrastination/motivation and learning styles
• referral to various supports, resources and student organizations/programs throughout the university (tutoring, academic advising, counselling, sports/physical education programs/teams, student governing bodies, academic programs, financial support programs and social programs)
• Stress Management - effectively managing stress through exam period, when issues arise, looking for a house/housemates, family issues, health issues (clinics, dentists) etc.
• On-going workshops (designed around student need)

This program is strongly encouraged for the first year Aboriginal students.  The initial transition year can be overwhelming at times.  The Aboriginal Peer Helper Program helps alleviate transition issues as well as connecting students with Aboriginal peers and support people.

For more information about the program please contact:

Vanessa McCourt

Aboriginal Advisor

mccourtv@queensu.ca