Southeast New Mexico College

Last Friday's Peer Mentoring Program presentation at the Persistence and Completion Day was a dynamic and insightful session that showcased the invaluable contributions of Peer Mentors Brittney, Delia, and Sarah, alongside Student Worker Joel. Their collective experiences and dedication to student success provided a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for attendees. Brittney, Delia, and Sarah, as seasoned Peer Mentors, brought forth their firsthand experiences in supporting fellow students through various academic and personal challenges. Their anecdotes painted a vivid picture of the impact that peer support can have on student persistence and achievement. From navigating course selections to providing emotional support during stressful times, their commitment to fostering a supportive community was palpable. Together, the presenters emphasized the multifaceted nature of student support and the interconnectedness of various campus resources in promoting persistence and completion. Through their collaborative efforts, they demonstrated how peer mentorship and student employment programs can synergize to create a nurturing environment conducive to academic and personal growth. Attendees left the presentation with a deeper understanding of the pivotal role that peer mentors and student workers play in fostering student success. Inspired by the passion and dedication exhibited by Brittney, Delia, Sarah, and Joel, participants were encouraged to further explore opportunities for mentorship and student involvement, recognizing them as integral components of a thriving academic community.

As part of First Year Experience (FYE), the SENMC Peer Mentors provide assistance and mentorship to students wanting help navigating student life. The program was developed in fall of 2022, under the leadership of Raymond Dominguez. The Fall 2023 semester, the Peer Mentoring program's first semester with cohorts, was a great success with more than 100 students participating. The mentoring program is open to all students at SENMC and is a great way to gain knowledge of campus resources and increase academic success. In addition to mentoring responsibilities, the Peer Mentors assist with HSI Grant Services events and workshops throughout the semesters.