“Research on education, retention, and college student development has repeatedly cited a student’s peer group is one of the most powerful influences on growth and development for undergraduates. Peer LINK builds on this influence and through peer-to-peer advising, helps students connect with academic opportunities, requirements, and peer support,” said Jackson.
Peer LINK Advisors are sophomore, junior, and senior undergraduates trained in academic advising. These new advisors supplement services provided by faculty and professional advisors on campus by offering a student perspective and a familiar point of contact. Peer advisors link students to campus resources and help them navigate degree requirements and explore the UO’s abundant educational opportunities.
Peer advisor Daisy Ahlstone said that Peer LINK has provided her with an opportunity to share her knowledge with other UO students in a way that “really fosters reciprocity and community among the undergraduate population.” She added that when students come in and see another student with the ability to answer their questions about registration, major changes, or other academic planning needs, they realize they have the ability to learn these things too and can have more control of their own academic success.
“My advisees can then take this information and share it with other students, which encourages the student body to educate each other and share in the technicalities of the college experience,” said Ahlstone.
Peer LINK is designed to:
- Foster a network of peer support
- Expand the scope and availability of academic advising services
- Support faculty and professional advisors on campus
- Grow Peer LINK Advisors as leaders
“When we developed the program, we knew there would be positive impact, but we didn’t know how quickly we’d see it. We’ve been able to expand our capacity to advise students and provide additional customer service to help them navigate processes and systems more effectively,” said Kimberly Johnson, director of the Office of Academic Advising. “Students are coming back more often as they have found peers to be very helpful. The word has spread, and we are thrilled that we are not only reaching more students but more of our first-year students who are most vulnerable and need the greatest guidance as they transition to college,” she added.
Peer LINK advisors are available on a drop-in basis in 364 Oregon Hall, Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except during finals week and holiday periods). Plans are underway for pop-up Peer LINK Advising sessions to be held in residence halls beginning in Winter Term and in the renovated Erb Memorial Union once it reopens.