For Us, By Us: Being Our Program's Mentors

Students in Appalachian State University’s Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program (SDAP) recently presented to students from similar programs across the country at the State of the Art Conference on Inclusive Postsecondary Education and Individuals with Intellectual Disability Student Leadership Conference in Sacramento, California.

Their presentation highlighted an innovative mentoring model that SDAP students have helped develop over the past three years. Unlike many inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs that rely on neurotypical peers as mentors, SDAP uses upper-level SDAP students as peer mentors for newer students.

The shift to a student-led mentoring model grew out of observations of SDAP students independently organizing social gatherings using skills learned in their Social Skills course. The course incorporates UCLA's evidence-based PEERS® curriculum, which helps students develop communication, friendship-building and social planning skills.

Using techniques learned through the curriculum, students plan events, send invitations through Google Calendar and follow up with reminders, building the confidence and organizational skills needed to create meaningful social experiences. As mentors, students now use those same skills to help new participants navigate college life and build connections.

For many SDAP students, serving as a mentor offers a unique level of understanding and support. As student mentor Grace explained, "Other mentors don't always understand what's going on in our lives. We get to become really good friends with our mentees."

Many IPSE programs use paid or volunteer peer mentors to support students' social engagement and residential experiences. While SDAP previously followed this model, the program has transitioned to student mentors. The results have included increased social engagement among participants and significant growth in leadership skills among mentors.

"Being a mentor to new students is important because it helps us welcome new mentees and make them feel included," shared one SDAP mentor.

Students also noted that their shared experiences allow them to connect with mentees in meaningful ways. "It's better because we want new students to feel welcome. We understand what they need," said Dixon.

The mentoring model has encouraged students to take ownership of their leadership roles, planning activities, building relationships and helping shape the student experience. "We are willing to go to different places and do different things than the paid mentors," said William. 

Andie added, "We are more adventurous."

By placing students in leadership roles, SDAP has created opportunities for mentorship that are both authentic and empowering, demonstrating how students can successfully support and learn from one another.

In addition to the student presentation, SDAP staff members Renee Kapp and Dr. Susan Hedges presented on the SDAP Peer Mentorship Program for professionals working in IPSE programs across the country.

*Article contributed by Dr. Susan Hedges.