Peer Advisors Provide Unique Insight
I came into the University of Pittsburgh totally undecided about what I wanted to study. My academic advisor, Emily Snyder, gave me the encouragement and motivation to explore different areas, and with her support, I discovered psychology and a possible career path as a therapist.
But Emily doesn’t just encourage me to use my time here to build myself as a student; she connects me to opportunities to build myself as a person. Knowing my intended major and career considerations, she told me about the peer advising program. We both thought it would be a great opportunity to get some experience under my belt.
As a peer advisor I've learned more about the Dietrich School than I ever knew there was to know! It has not only allowed me to utilize more resources around campus, but has given me the ability to connect other students to opportunities and experiences, like Emily has done for me.
One of my favorite roles is helping incoming students develop their class schedule. This seems like it may be a simple task, but at the Dietrich School, each student is truly an individual with ideas and interests of their own. There is no easy way or one-size-fits-all approach. Seeing the relief on a student’s face after they finally get their schedule nailed down feels great, mostly because I know what exactly how it feels to be in their shoes.
As a peer advisor, I really make a point to be honest and connect with the students. I'm very forward about what I like and don't like, and students seem to really appreciate it. I also like to give my email to the students I help so they can reach me with anything they need!
Working as a peer advisor truly makes me happy because I know I'm doing something good for others. College is all about experiences and opportunities and I am so glad to be a part of some students experience here at Pitt. I love this school and I want to help others get the most out of it too.
-Annabelle Racey (psychology, sociology, administration of justice)