Peer Programs at UBC

Students Helping Students: A Collaborative Approach

You might have heard the term “Peer Programs” used by UBC students and staff. Are you wondering, what the hype is all about and what exactly do these programs do?

It’s hard to explain what “Peer Programs” are since each program is so unique and different. However the one thing that they all have in common (as the name implies) is that they are all led by your UBC peers, and offer support to UBC students. There are currently 14 different programs; some have existed for many years, while others are brand new. Over the years, there has been discussion of collaboration between these programs. However it wasn’t until roughly four years ago that these discussions finally started turning into action. The existing peer-led programs united under the umbrella term: “Peer Programs” under the Vice President Students’ portfolio. This alliance has opened the doors for collaboration between different groups as well as a coordinated training and recruitment effort. In order to ensure that communication between programs was taking place, the Peer Programs Executive Committee (PPEC), comprised of a representative from each program as well as a Student Development staff advisor, was formed.

If you’re interested in learning more about any of the programs, you can check out the position descriptions found under “Programs” or drop by the Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) in Brock Hall from 10 am – 6 pm (summer closing time: 5 pm) and ask one of the CSI Assistants what each of the Peer Programs is about!

As of September 2013, Peer Programs at UBC include:

• Alumni Ambassadors
• Career Peer Educators
• Community Learning Facilitators (Trek Program)
• Engineering Peer Academic Coaches (EPAC)
• Equity Ambassadors
• Jump Start
• Peer Academic Coaches
• SCI Team
• Academic Success Coaches (ASC, Sauder)
• Science Peer Academic Coaches (SPAC)
• Sustainability Ambassadors
• Wellness Peer Educators