UNE > News and Events > Browse by article > “Freshers” get support from peers

Next Young scientists practise their communication skills February 17, 2006  

Previous Book sees new media as enriching children's literature February 15, 2006 

“Freshers” get support from peers

February 16, 2006

Peer supporter Sophia Waters with UCB Manager Chris HietbrinkNew students arriving at The University of New England are being shown the ropes by senior peers, as part of the tUNEin Peer Support Program, which aims to make the transition to university life easier.

The program is especially aimed at students living in town, who do not always have access to the same pastoral support and encouragement as their college counterparts. This support is particulary vital during “O-Week” when students take such important steps as enrolling and signing up for tutorials.

The Peer Support Program, now in its third year, is run by the university's Academic Skills Office. Program coordinator Ingrid Wijeyewardene said the main aim of the program was to provide new students with someone who could direct them to appropriate support services, such as careers and counselling, equity and academic advice. Peer supporters also act as guides, helping “freshers” to find their way around the campus.

“I have heard in the past of town students sometimes ending up standing by themselves, crying, with no idea what was going on or where they had to go,” Ms Wijeyewardene said.

“We're trying to make sure that doesn't happen, by pairing them with someone who has been through starting at university before and knows what it's like and can offer them advice.”

A total of 110 town students attended a meet-and-greet session on Monday (February 13), where they were welcomed by 43 peer supporters. A highlight of the morning's session was the drawing of two $50 vouchers donated by United Campus Bookshops. Participants in the program also received free movie tickets, courtesy of the Belgrave Twin Cinema. Most, however, were there simply for the satisfaction of helping their fellow students.

Peer supporter Martin Collins said the program was a “fantastic opportunity to capture new students' enthusiasm in the early stages of starting at uni, and use it to help keep them on track.”

“As a peer supporter you're constantly reminding them why they're here and helping them get what they want out of uni, and keeping them motivated.”

Mr Collins said an important part of the peer supporter's role was helping new students connect with their lecturers and tutors, something he believes helps prevent them dropping out.

“We try to encourage them to meet with their lecturers to discuss any issues, and to avail themselves of the academic support that's available,” he said. “If you can keep them doing well academically, and make them aware of those support structures, then they're much less likely to drop out when they hit a snag.”

For more information contact Ingrid Wijeyewardene on (02) 6773 5189 or Leon Braun (UNE Public Relations) on (02) 6773 3771. A photo is available to accompany this story.

Pictured: Peer supporter Sophia Waters, winner of a $50 book voucher, with United Campus Bookshops Manager Chris Hietbrink.

Posted by Leon Braun at February 16, 2006 02:16 PM