Peer Mentoring

Students Supporting Students

A peer mentor guides a student on how to set a study schedule Starting college comes with a lot of new experiences, expectations, and questions. The Peer Mentoring Program connects first-year students with trained peer mentors who provide one-on-one guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the transition to university life.

Peer mentors are experienced PennWest students who understand what it’s like to navigate academics, campus resources, involvement opportunities, and day-to-day college life.

Why Join Peer Mentoring?

Being part of the program can help you feel more connected, supported, and confident—especially during your first year.

You and your mentor can talk about things like:

Getting involved in clubs, events, and campus activities
Making friends and finding your community
Managing stress and balancing responsibilities
Finding campus resources and support services
Building strong study habits, staying motivated and forming academic goals
Navigating schedules, dining, housing, and daily campus life

Most importantly, peer mentoring helps you build a sense of belonging at PennWest.

First‑Year Students: Getting Started

Receive one‑on‑one support from trained peer mentors as you navigate academics, campus life, and new expectations.

Connect with a Mentor

Embedded Course Mentors

In some of your classes, you may meet an Embedded Course Mentor (ECM)—a fellow student who is there to support everyone in the course.

ECMs can help with:

General encouragement and guidance
Connecting you to helpful resources
Supporting your success in the classroom

While ECMs are a great in-class resource, you can also request your own peer mentor for one-on-one support throughout your entire first year. Having support both inside and outside the classroom helps you stay on track and feel connected every step of the way.

Current Students: Become a Peer Mentor

Interested in helping new students succeed? Become a peer mentor and make a positive impact for new students while adding valuable skills for your future.

As a volunteer peer mentor, you’ll:

Share resources and experience
Help new students build connections
Provide encouragement and guidance

You’ll also strengthen skills that add value to resumes and applications, including:

Leadership and relationship-building
Communication skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Teamwork, confidence, and professionalism

Become a Mentor

Have Questions?

We’re here to help. Contact us at mentoring@pennwest.edu or call 724-938-1682 to learn more about the Peer Mentoring Program.

Locations:

California
120 Noss Hall

Clarion
315 Becht Hall

Edinboro
256 Baron Forness Library