Beginning a journey at a university can be both exciting and challenging, especially for transfer students who are navigating a different environment. At SEU, the new peer mentor program aims to provide support and community for students making this significant change.
One inspiring story from this program involves Jose Guevara, a third-year student and dedicated peer mentor, and Victoria Cabrera, a first-year transfer student.
Victoria’s Journey
Victoria, originally from Arizona, transferred to SEU with hopes of finding a community that was both academically rigorous and spiritually enriching. “Coming to SEU was the biggest blessing I could imagine,” Victoria shares. “I got to be in a community so full of God and passionate about academics.”
Despite her excitement, Victoria faced the inevitable challenges of such a big transition. It was during these moments of doubt and difficulty that Jose played a crucial role. “Although it has been an awesome experience arriving at SEU, there have been tough challenges that if it was not for the in-person guidance and reassurance of my peer mentor, I would’ve struggled to overcome them,” Victoria explains.
The Mentor’s Role
Jose’s support has been instrumental in helping Victoria feel at ease. From providing practical advice on academic challenges to offering a listening ear, Jose’s mentorship has made a significant difference in Victoria’s university experience. “Jose is the nicest and kindest human being. He is always there to answer questions and to listen to anything I want to tell him,” Victoria says. “With my personality, I am a little intimidating, but he does not mind at all, and he always laughs at my jokes. He is truly an asset to the school and the peer mentor program.”
Victoria believes that the program offers a unique advantage that many other universities lack. “As a transfer student, having a peer mentor has been helpful,” she says. “This program made me feel more at home and comfortable here since my home in Arizona is thousands of miles away.”
The peer mentor program not only helps new students like Victoria, but also fosters meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging. “Having a peer mentor has also encouraged me to find more friendships here at SEU,” Victoria adds.
Looking Forward
As SEU’s peer mentor program continues to grow, stories like Victoria and Jose’s highlight the importance of personal connections and community.
For more information about SEU’s peer mentor program or to get involved, please contact Eileen Colon, Director of Student Success & Retention at ecolon@seu.edu.
By: Mia Golding, SEU Student Writer
Edited by Carson Rose, SEU Student Writer
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