Daniela Iregui Silva
Staff Writer
The Peer Mentoring Program stands as one of the most impactful initiatives at Broward College, fostering student engagement, learning and mentorship since it started in 2019. This program, in partnership with AmeriCorps Florida and Volunteer Florida, through Peer Forward, has created a supportive community that bridges the gap between new and current students, ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
The Peer Mentoring Program pairs current students and alumni, known as peer leaders, with newly enrolled or any student seeking guidance. These peer leaders provide invaluable support by sharing their own experiences, offering advice and connecting mentees with essential resources throughout their academic journey at Broward College.
Marta Bautista, a student success coach and an advocate of the Peer Mentoring Program, passionately describes the program as a “supportive community where experienced students, known as mentors or peer leaders, provide guidance and support to newer students.” Bautista emphasizes that the program is not just for freshmen but is open to all students, including transfer and returning students, who are looking to succeed both academically and personally.
“The role of the peer leader is to provide support each step of the way for the mentee as they work towards completing their degree or reaching their educational goals,” Bautista explains. This support can range from academic assistance to personal encouragement, depending on the mentee’s needs. The program is designed to model student success, not just within the college, but also in the broader community.
For peer leaders, the program offers numerous benefits. Bautista highlights leadership development, communication skills, personal growth and networking as key areas where peer leaders see significant enhancement. “Peer leaders experience personal growth through exposure to new ideas and perspectives. They also gain valuable networking opportunities,” she said.
Another significant benefit for peer leaders is the sense of fulfillment and service that comes from positively impacting someone else’s life. Many participants in the program cite this as their primary motivation for joining. Additionally, being a peer leader enhances both work and academic resumes, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the academic community. Peer leaders are required to complete various trainings that provide them with transferable skills, making them well-rounded individuals ready to face the future.
For students interested in becoming mentees, the Peer Mentoring Program offers benefits that are just as compelling. Personal growth, increased confidence and enhanced academic success are among the key outcomes of participation. Furthermore, being part of this program can also bolster a student’s resume, showcasing their commitment to personal and academic excellence.
In summary, the Peer Mentoring Program at Broward College is more than just a mentorship initiative, it’s a transformative experience that empowers students to achieve their goals, both inside and outside the classroom. By joining this supportive community, students are not only investing in their own success but are also contributing to a culture of shared growth and achievement at Broward College.
Photo courtesy of Broward College.