Mangilao,Guam-The University of Guam CLASS peer mentoring program provides academic guidance and advice to students seeking assistance. Established during Fanuchanan 2018, peer mentors provide confidential one-on-one advisement for all UOG students.

Kassidee Cruz, a peer mentor and psychology major states that although the program is backed by the CLASS Dean’s Office, the services are open to all students.

“We’re here to serve the community of CLASS and even UOG whether they’re struggling with maybe their academic plans or unsure of how to go about their college career,” Cruz said.

Students may receive assistance in creating a four-year academic plan, assistance with Moodle and WebAdvisor, and more information about course requirements for their major or minor.

Peer mentors are especially valuable for freshman or sophomore students who may be unable to contact academic advisors or are too intimidated to seek help from faculty.

Cruz recalls her experience as a freshman and said that this program would have been helpful to her. “I was terrified to talk to any of the professors I know now. I would have been cool then if a there was a resource like this, to talk to a friend or student to get their experiences.”

Yoshito Kawabata, associate professor of psychology and peer mentoring program head emphasizes that peer mentors are not counselors.

“Peer mentors can help for academic purposes and problems. If students are having mental health problems, we have free services like Isa.”

Currently peer mentor holds office hours Monday through Friday in the Humanities and Social Sciences Building Room 308.

 Kawabata encourages all students to take advantage of the program. “Peer mentors are very friendly and approachable. We try to make a friendly and cozy [environment] for students seeking help.