Building Confidence & Community Through Peer Success Coaching

College is a time of growth, self-discovery, and learning how to navigate new expectations both inside and outside of the classroom. 

While these experiences offer exciting opportunities, they can also become overwhelming and challenging at times. Fortunately, support systems exist to help you thrive as a student. One of the most valuable and evolving resources offered through the Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment is our Peer Success Coaching Program.

Why Peer Success Coaching Matters

What began as a Peer Mentor initiative focused on offering general support to first-year students has grown into a comprehensive Peer Success Coaching model. This transformation reflects our commitment to helping students not only adjust to college life, but also reach their full academic, personal, and professional potential.

While designed with first-year students in mind, Peer Success Coaching is open to all students navigating academic or personal challenges.

Peer Success Coaches (PSCs) are trained student leaders who serve as role models, motivators, and academic guides. Their mission is to empower fellow students to take ownership of their education by building productive habits, connecting with campus resources, and strengthening self-confidence.

Here’s how Peer Success Coaches can support your success:

1. Building Strong Academic Skills: PSCs help students develop personalized strategies for time management, effective note-taking, exam preparation, and goal setting. These skills can transform daily routines and lead to better academic performance.
2.  Finding Connection and Belonging: PSCs foster a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel heard and encouraged. By sharing their own experiences and challenges, PSCs help normalize the ups and downs of college life.
3. Normalizing Asking for Help: Sometimes, students hesitate to ask for help out of fear of seeming incapable. PSCs help reframe that mindset, showing that seeking support is actually a sign of strength and self-awareness.
4. Creating Personalized Success Plans: Through one-on-one coaching sessions, PSCs work with students to set clear goals, reflect on progress, and identify strategies for overcoming setbacks. These plans are designed to keep students accountable and focused on their long-term vision.

Peer Success Coaching in Action

Peer Success Coaching isn’t just about ideas, it’s about putting support into practice. You can engage with PSCs in a variety of different ways that fit your schedule and needs throughout the semester:

• 1:1 Success Coaching: Students can meet weekly or bi-weekly with a Peer Success Coach to discuss their academic goals, reflect on habits, and build new strategies for success. These meetings are informal, supportive, and tailored to each student’s needs.
• Workshops & Events: PSCs lead engaging sessions on topics like study skills, exam prep, building a growth mindset, and navigating mid-semester stress. These workshops help create a shared space for learning and growth.
• Study Halls & Tabling: During key points in the semester, PSCs host study halls and outreach events to build academic community, reduce stigma around seeking help, and connect students to broader OSS resources such as tutoring, advising, and success planning.

How to Connect With a Peer Success Coach

There are several easy ways to connect with a Peer Success Coach (PSC) at Widener, whether you want one-on-one support or a quick conversation to learn more: 

• Academic Support & Mentorship Page: Students can request a coach directly on mySuccess. 
  • When filling out the Academic Coaching form, please note that you’d like to be paired with a Peer Success Coach.
• Be Referred By a Faculty or Staff Member
• OSS Events & Outreach: Students can also meet PSCs during events, tabling sessions, or workshops held throughout the semester.

Your Path to Academic and Personal Growth

The shift from Peer Mentor to Peer Success Coach happened because we know you need more than just encouragement. You need real tools, accountability, and someone to walk with you as you navigate college whether you are a first-year student or maybe a little further along in your academic journey. 

Peer Success Coaches are not just peer leaders; they are here to help shape a culture of academic resilience and empowerment across Widener’s campus. Many of our PSCs have been exactly where you are. They’ve experienced the hurdles of college firsthand and emerged stronger by learning how to ask for help, apply strategies, and persist through challenges. Now, they’re here to share what they’ve learned and remind you that success is possible for everyone—you included.

You’ve got goals—let’s reach them together.

👉 Request a Peer Success Coach today through mySuccess or stop by the Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment to get connected.

Looking For Other Ways to Connect With Peers?

Peer Success Coaching is just one way to connect and thrive at Widener. Getting involved across campus can enrich your journey and create a stronger sense of belonging. Here are some additional opportunities to explore:

• Tutoring & Academic Support: Join peer-led tutoring sessions for extra help in courses while connecting with classmates who share your goals.
• Clubs & Organizations: With 90+ student organizations, you can explore interests, make friends, and grow leadership skills.
• Living Learning Communities (LLCs): Live alongside students with similar majors or interests in a supportive environment that blends academics and community.
• Civic Engagement: Participate in volunteer projects, service initiatives, or campus-wide events that make a difference while building connections and leadership skills.

Combine these opportunities with Peer Success Coaching to boost confidence, find community, and thrive on campus.

Erica Brunner is the Assistant Director of Student Success and Academic Enrichment, a dedicated higher education professional who began her career in student affairs with a passion for helping students succeed. Her commitment to student support started over five years ago at Widener University as an academic support specialist, and she earned her master's degree in counseling education before taking on her current role.