The purpose of the RVUCOM-SU Peer Mentoring program is to assist the incoming class in having a successful transition to medical school by providing opportunities for networking and support resources during their first year. Incoming students are paired with one of 25 upperclassmen, Peer Mentors. Peer Mentors are assigned to mentees in May and immediately begin to provide communication and support. The program also provides the selected peer mentors with the opportunity to grow as they practice their leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Program goals include:
- Provide the incoming class with a support group of 2nd-year peers who can share from their own experiences in making the transition to medical school.
- Assist the incoming class with acquiring personal, social, and academic skills which will help them to understand and adjust to the rigors of medical school
- Provide mentors with opportunities for their own personal and professional growth as they help to provide a caring and supportive network for incoming students.
- Provide another networking opportunity and de-stressor as mentors combine their groups for fun or informative activities.