New peer mentoring program for bioengineering underclassmen

The Department of Bioengineering has introduced an innovative Peer Mentoring Program to support students in their academic and professional journeys. This program pairs experienced upperclassmen with underclassmen, offering personalized guidance on coursework, research, career development, and more.

This new mentoring program was created after an Undergraduate Advisory Board meeting where underclassmen expressed a desire to better connect with upperclassmen. As a result, bioengineering undergraduate program coordinators decided to help facilitate peer-to-peer connections and networking.

“The goal is to provide leadership opportunities within the department and increase student engagement,” said Undergraduate Program Coordinator & Academic Advisor Jake Spinnato. “We want underclassmen to be able to gain a student perspective on how to accomplish their personal and academic goals.”

This year’s peer mentors are Erien Lucero, Abby Longstreet, Dmitry Yurchanka, Anushka Agashe, Arshveer Sachdeva, and Keya Patel. Each of these mentors brings their own expertise and experience to the table, but they all have one thing in common: a passion for bioengineering and helping other members of the bioengineering community.

“When I started as a freshman, I did not know any upperclassmen and was too shy to reach out,” Erien said. “I became a peer mentor because I liked the idea of having a set time and place where underclassmen could come on their own time and upperclassmen were always there. I’ve also had some experience with mentoring and love being able to help someone feel less alone in their struggles.”

Bioengineering is a complex field and it’s important that students are able to seek guidance and support when they need it. This new mentoring program makes it easy for students to know where to turn with questions or frustrations.

“I hope that the peer mentors become a trusting group for many to come to,” Erien said. “Whether a person comes by often, once, or even never, I want my fellow bioengineering students to know that they have people who have been in their position and are rooting for them with any help they can provide.”

The program offers individualized assistance, and addresses both academic and personal needs. Mentors can help with research decisions, time management, advice on classes and more, ensuring students receive tailored support for whatever their needs might be. Beyond academics, mentors can share their experiences in securing internships and employment, preparing students for successful careers after graduation.

In a rapidly evolving field like bioengineering, a strong support system is vital. The Department of Bioengineering's Peer Mentoring Program equips students with the knowledge and confidence they need to excel. It's not just shaping students; it's shaping the future of bioengineering by fostering excellence, collaboration, and individual growth.

“I think all underclassmen could benefit from peer mentoring!” Abby said. “We can be a sounding board for tons of academic and extracurricular topics because we understand these topics personally and have been in your shoes.”

Learn more about the bioengineering peer mentors and when to meet with them here!