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Megan Maynard
  • Social Work
  • Class of 2015
  • Griswold, CT

Eastern Student Megan Maynard of Griswold Gives Back as a Peer Tutor

2015 Feb 18

Every new student, freshman or transfer, is required to take a three-credit First-Year Introduction class -- two credits of which are taught by a professor as a class, with offerings in a wide range of subjects and disciplines. One hour a week, a peer mentor instructs the class in First-Year Experience materials. They cover everything from study skills and time management, to utilizing the many resources and opportunities on campus. "Almost 50 percent of our new students are first-generation college students, which means peer mentors are vital resources, offering advice from firsthand experience," said Chris Drewry, assistant director of the Advising Center at Eastern Connecticut State University.

Megan Maynard '15 of Griswold, CT, was selected as a peer mentor. Maynard's major is Social Work.

Each year about 40 students, from sophomores to seniors, take on the challenge of helping their peers navigate campus life and academics. The peer mentor role can include organizing social events, helping students connect with student groups on campus and giving presentations on college survival skills such as advising, registration and financial literacy. They get the chance not only to teach at a college level, but also to share their hard-earned wisdom and give something back to Eastern.

Peer mentors must have at least a 3.0 GPA, and be hardworking and personable. They are recruited from clubs and by their own former peer mentors, as well as by faculty who recommend outstanding students. The goal of the First-Year Experience is to ensure that every first-time, full-time student makes a successful transition to college, and peer mentors are vital to making that happen.