What is the Peer Counseling Program?
The Peer Counseling Program, founded in 1985 and supported by the Office of the Dean of the College, is dedicated to assisting students throughout their important first year of college by establishing one-on-one peer-mentoring relationships between first-year and upper-class students. The Program is built on the belief that the regular availability of a trained upper-class student to listen and offer advice and guidance will greatly assist a first-year student in meeting the demands of college life. Realizing that a student’s college experience involves much more than the classroom, and that academic achievement can be influenced for both good and bad by how a student balances the myriad components of college life, peer counselors are prepared to provide advice and assistance on a variety of issues that might affect a first-year student.

Who are the Peer Counselors?
Peer Counselors are upper-class students who volunteer because of their desire to assist entering students. Peer counselors are selected based on strong interpersonal skills, solid academic performance, and thorough knowledge of how to function as a college student. Most peer counselors are leaders in other campus organizations. After being selected, Peer Counselors participate in a comprehensive training program. Peer Counselors and first-year students are matched using a variety of criteria - particularly academic interests.

“Not only was I able to help the first year students adjust, but at the same time I learned a lot from them. I discovered parts of my personality through sharing experiences and resolving issues.”

Advice given to students by peer counselors

Evan Lebovitz - Be proactive. Meet with your professor one-on-one if you are struggling or are interested in research. Speak with the head of a club to get involved in an activity. Take matters into your own hands.

Chris LaTempa - Use a daily planner to keep organized and stay on top of when assignments are due or events are taking place.

Peer counselors assist first-year students with:

• The important balance between academic and social life
• Resources available at Lafayette, both academically and socially
• Roommate interactions and dormitory life
• Homesickness
• Any and all aspects of college life relating to academic success
• Campus policies and procedures
• Course and room selection
• Cultural adaptation for international students or those from across the country