Welcoming new students to the Environment community
During the first six weeks in fall term, all first-year undergraduate students are enrolled in the Environment Peer Mentor program for support as they transition to university life.
Students supporting students
First-year Environment students are provided an upper-year peer mentor to help them transition to University life. Peer mentors are a special kind of Environment student. They are equipped with knowledge and experience and can help new students with:
- Building lasting relationships with peers and upper year students in the faculty
- Managing workload and maintaining well being
- Learning campus and faculty resources, services, and supports
- Joining campus-wide clubs, advocacy groups and athletic teams
Program highlights
Meet and Greet
At the start of the term, first-year students will have the opportunity to meet peer mentors at our Orientation event.
During this session, peer mentors will share their experiences on:
- Navigating campus resources
- Planning future terms
- Building a community
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Preparing for midterms
- Overcoming challenges
Office Hours
Office hours are designed for you to ask questions about your courses, assignments, or university life. Connect with upper-year peer mentors who have been in your shoes. Whether you need help with understanding course material, advice on time management, or simply want to chat about how to make the most of your university experience, office hours are here for you. Drop by, get your questions answered, and build connections with mentors who are eager to support you throughout your journey!
Online communities
Online communities are another way for peer mentors to support our new students. First-year students are invited to chat, ask questions, and connect with their peer mentor and other first-year students through their Microsoft Teams online groups.
Check your emails in September for an invite to your peer mentor Teams' channel!
Meet your 2024 Peer Mentors
Connect with your peer mentors, whether you're seeking academic guidance, campus tips, or just someone to chat with, your peer mentors are here to support you. Book an office hour today!
Haris (he/him) 2A
Office hours:
- Mondays 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Tuesdays 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Wednesdays 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.
I understand that being away from home for the first time can feel overwhelming, with everything seeming so new. But these experiences are a great opportunity for self-discovery – if you ever need to discuss anything related to your experience at university, I’m here for you!
Hayley (she/her) 4A
Office Hours:
- Mondays 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- Tuesdays 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Starting at a new university can be both exciting and stressful. When I first arrived here, I felt a bit lost, but I was lucky to meet some amazing peers who helped me find my way. I want you to know that you’re not alone, I am always here to help you navigate this new chapter! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any guidance or just someone to talk to. Let's make this year an incredible one!
Mary (she/her) 4A
Office Hours:
- Mondays 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Thursdays 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
- Fridays 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
University comes with a fair share of academic and social adjustments. It can become overwhelming because it is a much different environment from high school. If you are ever unsure about who to contact or which resource to seek help from, just ask me and I would be glad to help you out!
Jae (she/they) 3A
Office Hours:
- Wednesdays 3:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.
- Thursdays 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- Fridays 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Finding your vibe and your people isn’t always easy! I’m a huge clubs and societies enjoyer and I’m always here to help navigate what’s available on campus!
Jess (she/her) 3A
Office Hours:
- Tuesdays 3:40 p.m.-5:40 p.m.
- Wednesdays 8:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
- Thursdays 1:10 p.m. - 2:10 p.m.
One piece of advice I wish I had is not to be afraid to join clubs and socialize with your classmates—they’ll be a big part of your life over the next few years. Also don't hesitate to ask questions anytime; I’m here to support you!
Meggie (she/her) 2A
Office Hours:
- Tuesdays 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
- Wednesdays 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Thursdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
I know it may seem intimidating at first but don’t be afraid to go up to people and make new friends! Everybody here is meeting each other for the first time and more than happy to become friends.
Angela (she/her) 4A
Office Hours:
- Monday: 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Tuesday: 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- Wednesday: 12:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
I know how hard it is to find your footing in university, especially when you don’t know who to ask for help. I’m always here to help if you need anything!
Become a peer mentor
Are you knowledgeable about campus resources and the Faculty of Environment? Do you wish to pass on your knowledge and experience on to others?
The application to become a peer mentor opens every spring term. To learn more about what we are looking for in a peer mentor, check out the job description on the Environment Peer Mentor Application Form.
We hope to see you apply in the spring!
I became a peer mentor because I want help first years feel comfortable and make connections early, so they can live their Environment lives to the fullest.