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What is Steer Peer Mentoring?
Steer Peer Mentoring is a programme which recruits course-specific peer mentors. It offers an opportunity for new and returning students to meet new people, learn more about their course, and find out about the academic and social opportunities available to them.
Who are the Steer Peer Mentors?
Steer Peer Mentors are students who have completed at least their first year of study in a similar course to their mentees and understand what it is like to be a new student at Stirling. They are supported by Students' Union staff and have undergone a short training programme to help new students make the transition to Stirling as smooth and enjoyable as possible. They have their own experiences and insight to turn to, which will help them cultivate a welcoming environment to aid in the social and academic development of new students.
Peer mentors will also lead peer-assisted learning (PAL) sessions throughout the academic year to help mentees get to know their classmates better and go over any issues/concerns they may have.
What can my peer mentor do for me?
Primarily, peer mentors will provide academic coaching. This includes helping guide you on effective study strategies, time management, and goal setting. They will also offer support in understanding course material, preparing for exams, and navigating academic resources.
Additionally, peer mentors can:
- Support you in solving problems early.
- Share their experiences with you so that you have an idea of what challenges you may face and what opportunities are available to you.
- Help foster a sense of belonging by assisting you in learning about Stirling Unviersity.
- Encourage you to get involved in the social side of Stirling University by joining societies and sports clubs.
- Help you learn more about the Students' Union and how we can support you to make the most of your time at university.
- Signpost you to the support resources available on and off campus.
Some typical questions peer mentors can answer:
- Where are my lectures, timetables, tutorials?
- What's a module?
- How can I contact my personal tutor?
- Where's the library, and how do I take out a book?
- How can Student Learning Services (SLS) help me?
- What do I do if I don't think I chose the right course?
- What student life opportunities are there, and how do I get involved in them?
- What resources are there to get experience and improve my employability?
- Where can I go for accessibility, advocacy, and/or mental health support?