Daniela Iregui
Online Editor
As a BC student, I have the opportunity of being part of the Peer Mentoring Program as a mentee, but also as part of the Peer Mentoring team. Broward College, in collaboration with esteemed organizations PeerForward and Americorps, has made the Peer Mentoring program possible with the purpose of enhancing student success.
This initiative marks the first of its kind, making a huge change in the way, we students, are guided and empowered throughout our academic journey. The programs peer leaders are current Broward College students who are equipped with training in leadership and mentoring skills to offer invaluable support and guidance to their peers.
Peer mentoring has long been acknowledged as a powerful tool that boosts student success and personal development. Broward College recognizes the significance of cultivating a strong and inclusive campus community, where students can rely on their peers for guidance and support. The Peer Mentoring and Leadership program is designed to do just that.
Peer leaders possess a natural understanding of the challenges faced by their mentees. Their relatability creates an environment of trust and mutual understanding, where all students can openly discuss their concerns or questions. This creates a supportive atmosphere that encourages us to remain motivated and engaged in our academic journey.
The heart of the Peer Mentoring program lies in the solid support that peer leaders provide to us, their fellow students. Peer leaders are there to offer guidance to every student who needs support and guidance. Whether it’s choosing the right courses, how to register for classes, or seeking resources for academic excellence, the peer leaders are well-prepared to assist.
Mohammed Aqeel is a peer leader of this program who said he is very proud of serving as a lead peer leader, which consists in guiding and supporting fellow students in their academic and personal journeys. He describes his experience in the Peer Mentoring program as an incredibly fulfilling and enriching experience. It has allowed him to connect with peers, cultivate leadership skills, and positively impact the lives of others, Aqeel said. According to Aqeel, there are numerous aspects of Peer Mentoring that he cherishes deeply. Firstly, engagement with students and the opportunity to create events that foster a sense of community and camaraderie is truly rewarding. Witnessing people share wonderful moments and form new friendships brings immense joy. Additionally, he expresses that being part of something larger than himself, where members of the program are able to give back to the community, and particularly empower first- generation college students and minorities, fills him with a sense of purpose and pride.
Aqeel shares an inspiring quote for all BC students “There will never be a PERFECT time to start. Dont waste your life waiting for the perfect conditions to succeed. Do yourself a favor and find a way to embrace your own challenges succeeding on your own terms. “Aqeel said, “Let these words remind you to seize every opportunity, face challenges head-on, and define success in your own unique way. Your journey is yours to embrace and conquer.”
For more information about the Peer Mentoring program and how to join, visit Broward.edu/mentoring.
