Peer Support Programs Offered by KSU

¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ sees the benefits of peer support and offers various programs across the Division of Student Affairs to foster a campus of care and support. Peer education and support involve students helping each other by sharing knowledge, experiences, and guidance, making it highly effective in college settings. This approach is beneficial because students can relate to and trust their peers, leading to open conversations about sensitive topics like mental health and substance use. It empowers students, enhances accessibility to support, fosters community, and reinforces learning for peer educators. Peer-to-peer support creates a collaborative and inclusive college environment, promoting personal and academic success.
peer counseling between students

Programs for Every Student

Peer Counseling

Peer counselors listen attentively, promote understanding, and establish environments for social interactions in the campus community. They receive training and support from Counseling and Psychological Services, and while they do not replace therapy, they provide support, information, and direction on common student concerns. Individuals requiring clinical assistance or dealing with emergencies should contact licensed professionals.

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Peer Health OWLs (Outreach & Wellness Leaders)

The Peer Health Education Program at KSU improves student wellness through peer education. Student volunteers are trained to give presentations on alcohol awareness, sexual health, and stress management. The program also offers health-related outreach programs and activities for students.

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CYAAR Ambassadors

Peer education operates on the principle that students learn effectively from peers they can relate to. At the Center for Young Adult Addiction and Recovery, CYAAR ambassadors are trained in peer to peer education to help deliver programs and services regarding alcohol and other drug education. A subset of CYAAR ambassadors, peer educators, undergo training to deliver 50-minute presentations on alcohol and drug prevention within academic classrooms. These sessions aim to educate students on making informed decisions regarding substance use, offer access to campus resources, and provide opportunities for students to self-assess their own behaviors related to alcohol and other drugs.

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Recreation Program Facilitators

Our Recreation Program Facilitators lead various activities, including group fitness, personal training, outdoor trips, and swim instruction. To learn more, visit our program websites:

  • OwlFit Programs include group fitness, personal training, certification opportunities, instructional series, and fitness special events
  • OwlAquatics programs include swim lessons, drop-in swim, Masters Swim Team, certification opportunities, and aquatic special events
  • Outdoor Adventures programs include Nature Bound outdoor trips, the Climbing Gym, the Bike Shop, and outdoor adventures clinics, special events, and workshops

For employment opportunities, visit our Sports and Recreation student employment website.

Sports and recreation student employment

Student Engagement and Support Peer Leaders

Student Engagement and Support, peer Leader program is here to form connections with new students as they start college and continue supporting them throughout their first year. They also provide essential support to students, assisting them in achieving success academically, socially, and professionally. 

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Financial Wellbeing Peer Mentors

Financial Wellbeing Peer Mentors are crucial in educating and guiding their fellow students on managing personal finances effectively. They offer support through one-on-one sessions, workshops, and seminars, covering essential topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding credit. These mentors often provide advice tailored to individual financial situations, helping students make informed decisions and develop healthy financial habits. Additionally, they may assist in navigating financial aid options and student loans, empowering students to achieve financial stability during and after their college years.

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Testimonials

Peer/social support is an important factor in helping treat my mental health concerns. I understand that it may be easier for a student to talk to another peer about issues than an adult, which is why I see the value in an initiative like Peer Counseling being implemented on campus.

I’ve been able to develop skills in team work, leadership, communication, public speaking and many more that wouldn’t have been attainable in any classroom setting.

I can confidently say that Lexie changed my life for the better! I think KSU is very lucky to have her on the team. Her knowledge and expertise and also her encouraging and welcoming personality made it so fun and fulfilling to train with her!