Peer Support Program

What is Peer Support?

Starting college or university can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone! The Peer Support Program connects you with other students who have been through similar experiences. It’s about building a supportive community, sharing lived experiences, and encouraging each other.

Why Join?

✓ Share and learn from lived experiences

✓ Build confidence in your transition journey

✓ Get tips for navigating courses, services, and campus life

✓ Find encouragement and community support

Roles & Responsibilities

• Peer Supporters, experienced students/alumni): Share experiences, listen actively, encourage self-advocacy, respect confidentiality. Support the TIPS learning process.
• New Students: Ask questions, share challenges, participate in group discussions, respect others’ experiences.
• The Community: Create a welcoming space, celebrate milestones, support organic mentoring relationships.

How the Program Works

• Monthly meetings: Focused on transition topics like accommodations, self-advocacy, and wellness. Guest presentations from the community and activities lead by Peer Supporters.
• Online space/community building: For Open Q&A, resource sharing, and peer connection. Support with the online transition course, TIPS, is also available.
• Alumni & network growth: Expand the community with alumni and peers from across BC and possibly other provinces.

What You’ll Gain

✓  Learn what peer support is — and how it’s different from formal mentoring.

✓  Build confidence and feel a stronger sense of belonging through shared experiences.

✓  Practice creating a respectful and supportive environment with your peers.

✓  Join group discussions and online forums to share resources, tips, and encouragement.

✓  Discover how peer support can prepare you for challenges now and in the future.