Peer Support Programs

Does the idea of mentorship intimidate you? If so, you're not alone. It can be daunting to talk to someone who seems far removed from where you are. But what if you could talk to someone who has been exactly where you are now, made it through to the other side... and is better for it? That's the magic of peer mentorship: it breaks down barriers to build relationships based on genuine connection. Whether you're reaching out or giving back, check out the peer support programs below!

Group of students at Carter's Mountain

Asian/Pacific Islander/Desi American (APIDA) Peer Advising Family Network (PAFN)

We're a student-run mentorship program sponsored by Multicultural Student Services. Our goal is to ease the transition for incoming Asian and Asian-American students by providing support and community. To accomplish this, we've set up a unique family system, wherein our upperclassmen each serve as mentor for a small group of incoming students. We call these groups "families" because they often develop a closeness that extends far beyond their time at UVA.

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Students on steps outside

Middle Eastern Mentoring Program (on hold)

While our mentoring program is on hiatus, we encourage you to check out the Middle Eastern Leadership Council, the umbrella organization and coordinating body for Middle Eastern organizations at UVA. In this working group, we exchange ideas, collaborate on events and activities, and connect Middle Eastern students to the broader UVA community.

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Students outside in the grass

Hispanic/Latinx Peer Mentoring Program (PMP)

Our program serves to welcome new students to the University with fun and community. We kick off the school year with two fun-filled weeks of sports, food, and other gatherings, after which mentees are matched up to mentors. All together, there are four mentorship familias, each led by an exec member, with about 20-25 mentors each. It is important to us that our mentors are approachable, enthusiastic, and genuinely interested in helping others.

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Peer Advisors on steps at Ern Commons

Peer Advisor Program

Nationally recognized for "exemplary practice in achieving campus diversity," we serve to welcome Black first-year and transfer students to life at UVA. Each new student is paired with a "Big Brother" or "Big Sister" based on academic and extracurricular interests. In addition to this one-on-one support, we offer a variety of activities throughout the year, from orientation and academic recognition opportunities to workshops and seminars.

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PHEs tabling on the Lawn

Peer Health Educators

We are a diverse group of 70 students trained to empower our peers to practice holistic health and well-being through dynamic outreach programs. It's our goal to promote a healthy and inclusive culture at UVA with evidence-based education - and without judgment.

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Career Peer Educators

Career Peer Educators

We're student ambassadors, bridging the gap between the Career Center and the rest of the student body. During our walk-in office hours, we can help you with resume reviews, cover letters, and general tips. We also deliver career skill workshops and contribute to UVA's Career Communities. We hope to make the career support experience more personal and approachable.

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