Experience the dual rewards of mentorship:
Together, discover growth, empowerment, and community in our Peer Mentor Program.
Please contact us if you have any questions about our Peer Mentor Program.
Are you a new online student or a current online student facing challenges in your coursework? Discover how a Peer Mentor can be your guiding light to success.
Starting or struggling with online learning can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go it alone. Here's why you should request a Peer Mentor:
While mentors are here to guide and empower students, there are certain things they are not responsible for:
Remember, a successful mentorship is based on understanding these roles and boundaries. Open and clear communication ensures a positive and productive relationship between mentors and their mentees.
Don't let challenges hold you back. Request a Peer Mentor today and embark on a journey of growth, achievement, and empowerment.
Are you a student in the Undergraduate Online Career at Queen’s University seeking a rewarding way to make a lasting impact while enhancing your own university experience? We invite you to become a Peer Mentor and inspire the success of your fellow students.
As an experienced student, you possess invaluable insights that can help others navigate their university journey. Here's why you should volunteer as a Peer Mentor:
While mentors are here to guide and empower students, there are certain things they are not responsible for:
Remember, a successful mentorship is based on understanding these roles and boundaries. Open and clear communication ensures a positive and productive relationship between mentors and their mentees.
If you are an online student in good academic standing and have completed at least 15.0 units of online coursework at Queen’s, you are eligible to become a mentor. Your journey to becoming a Peer Mentor with Arts and Science Online starts with expressing your interest through the webform below.
Once you've submitted the webform, we will promptly get in touch with you to set up an interview. During this interview, to assess your suitability for the Peer Mentor Program, discuss your expectations and aspirations as a mentor and answer your questions. It's an excellent opportunity for us to get to know you better and ensure that you are a good fit for our program.
Once part of the Peer Mentor Team, you will receive training/coaching to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your role as a mentor.
Seize this wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow students, contribute to the community, and leave a lasting legacy at Arts and Science Online at Queen’s University as a valued Peer Mentor. We look forward to having you on board!
"Having a mentor is very helpful since one can ask questions and share their worries with a person who already passed the same journey. I am really grateful to have a mentor.“
-Razieh
“[My Peer Mentor] has been an invaluable resource throughout my academic journey. His guidance and support have not only helped me navigate the challenges of university life but have also encouraged me to strive for excellence in all my endeavours. I highly recommend the peer mentor program to any student seeking to achieve their academic goals with the support of a knowledgeable and experienced mentor".
- Anonymous
"As a mentor, I get to work with students from different backgrounds. It is a great feeling to know that you’re helping someone who was once in your shoes when you started Queen’s Online. Guiding someone through all the fantastic resources Queen’s offers and giving general advice on how to approach communicating online, feels like a step in creating a true online community."
- Trudi
"It is an honour for me to be part of the Mentor program. I have learned a lot from this program. Besides, I joined the program to pay back to the Queens community. I felt like a co-pilot helping a pilot to get to their destination."
- Naqeeb
"Since being in an online education program can feel lonely, being a peer mentor has allowed me to guide other students through onQ, the library, and general studying tips. It also gives a sense of camaraderie and reassurance knowing that others have successfully made it through the same program that you’re in."
- Anonymous
My name is Blake Clark; I am in my third year of study within Queens's Bachelor of Psychology program. Once completed, I plan to resume my career in education, fulfilling a different role from my current career, working with disabled children for the past two decades.
My pastimes are anything outdoor activity-based, such as hunting, hiking, and just about anything to get me outside.
I am an avid motorcycle enthusiast and have owned large touring bikes and sport bikes; I can repair anything with a motor.
I enjoy travel and even rode across Vietnam on a motorcycle with my wife for several months. We have taken our daughter to a dozen countries already, and she is only two.
Finance and real estate investing are also a pastime I am enthusiastic about.
My family and I reside in the sunniest place in Canada, Kelowna, British Columbia. We have relocated from Toronto in search of a more active lifestyle.
I can understand being overwhelmed and provide guidance and motivation for staying on top of distance learning; the right ideas can create a manageable school/life ecosystem!
A pleasure to meet you!
Hello! I'm Nicole and I'm currently completing my Bachelor in Psychology through Queens Arts and Science Online. Once completed I plan on following through with grad school to become a clinical psychologist. I'm very interested in how our surroundings and social support affect our mental health.
I know how challenging it can be returning to university as a mature student after being out of academics for an extended period of time. I've spent most of the last decade managing teams and empowering them to be the best version of themselves at work and in their personal life. I find it incredibly rewarding helping individuals attain their goals of where they want to be and their ideal self!
In my free time, I can be found outside with my dog, creating my own tea blends, reading, or cooking.
I understand online learning can feel overwhelming at times, but there are tools to help you and resources to make sure you feel fully supported. I look forward to assisting you in your learning experience here.
Hi there! My name is Erika, I am a mature student pursuing my BA in Psychology online and received my SSW (Honours) diploma from Humber College in 2021.
I spent a year peer mentoring first-year students at Humber, and I am so happy to be supporting students here at Queen's as well! Outside of school, I work full-time as a residential support worker, and volunteer as a youth mentor and board member at SACQD. If you're looking for someone to hold compassionate space and support you with time management, provide effective study techniques, or direct you to school resources during your time at Queen's I'd love to help you along the way.
When I'm not working, studying or volunteering, I love to play Dungeons & Dragons with my friends, hike, go to the gym, and play with my three tuxedo cats.
Hello everyone! My name is Sheri Lee (she/her/hers), I am currently in the second year of my BA in Global Development Studies. Additionally, I am the Student Rep for the ASO community.
Previously, I completed my Social Service Worker diploma (with Honours) at Durham College online, in addition, I have completed my teaching and training for adults and children’s mental health certificate. My previous work experience lies in health and education. My passion involves assisting individuals of all ages work towards achieving their health and educational goals. Once I have completed my degree, I aspire to work in supporting and facilitating local community initiatives.
I recognize, returning to school as a mature student can be an adjustment. Finding the balance between school, work, personal life, and wellbeing can be a challenge, but it is possible! Online studies can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. I hope as a mentor to help new students feel confident in their ability to tackle their educational goals navigating through this new world. I am eager to help you with this new academic endeavour as a member of Queen’s University’s ASO community.
I look forward to meeting you and assisting you throughout your educational career.
I graduated from Queens's Bachelor of Psychology program online in June 2023 and have made the Dean’s honour list twice. I am also a working artist and designer and plan to pursue further education to become an Art Therapist so I may utilize my skills as an artist with therapeutic processes to assist individuals who have difficulty articulating their thoughts and feelings.
As a daughter of immigrants, returning to school as a mature student was not an easy path to take. I am also a trailing spouse who is currently living outside of Canada. I understand the obstacles that can come from balancing work, school, and family expectations. My goal as a mentor is to provide guidance and resources for whatever may come your way and it is a privilege to assist you with your academic journey. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi! My name is Leila, I live in midtown Toronto and am in my final year of the BA Psychology program graduating in May 2023. In addition to my degree, I also completed my certificate in Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Creativity in the summer of 2022. I attended Queen’s in person for undergrad almost 30 years ago (!!) as a chemical engineer but left after two years to pursue a career in graphic design. I am grateful to have the opportunity to complete my degree online while balancing work, motherhood, and family life.
It was a big adjustment returning to my studies and finding the motivation to learn remotely. I am keen to help other new students navigate the resources available and find ways to make their ASO experience as rewarding as possible.
I look forward to being a part of your learning journey!
Showing others the way - Read about Leila's experience with our Peer Mentor Program
Hello! My name is Brittany Chaisson and I reside in Nova Scotia, Canada. I am a 3rd year online Bachelor of Life Sciences student due to graduate summer of 2023!
As a mother, employee and student I know that the commitment to complete a degree of any kind comes with sacrifice. You’ll sometimes fall short and it won’t be easy. What I also know is that the investment in your education and personal growth will be worth it.
For me, being able to get an education from home is a privilege and one I do not take lightly as a mature student, mother and woman. I first attended university upon graduating highschool and at the time was not yet ready for the commitment. Now, 12 years later I am able to make that commitment but as an online student, which enables me to have a healthy life balance and be here for my young children.
I am here as a shoulder and a soundboard for you. I want to listen to your struggles, triumphs and joys and advise you when you ask for it. It is so important to find a community in life that can lift you up and help light the way, this can be that for you! I can’t wait to meet you.
Hello! My name is Michael (he/him), I had the good fortune of completing my undergraduate studies at Queen’s University; where I graduated with BA (with distinction) in Global Development Studies, a Certificate in Global Action and Engagement (where I had the privilege of being in the inaugural programme cohort) and a Certificate in Law. I am also a MSc candidate reading Humanitarian Action at SOAS University of London. Professionally, I have worked in the public sector space for over fifteen years and have covered various portfolios across Canada, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
I absolutely loved my time at Queen’s and think that the diversity of experiences and backgrounds in the ASO student cohort reflect the very best of the university. I know that undertaking online or blended learning comes with some inherent challenges and navigating that environment can be daunting but the learning community is passionate and there are unique and exciting learning opportunities all along that journey. I hope that I can help make your time at Queen’s a rewarding experience. I look forward to working with you and assisting wherever I can with your learning experience!
I completed my degree very slowly while working full-time, so I usually took one course per term. I know it feels like it’s taking forever, but eventually you get there. I graduated with a BA in Sociology and took many online courses to accommodate my work and family commitments.
I had amazing supports during my academic journey at Queen’s. I had fantastic professors and built a great network of likeminded friends. When I didn’t like the vibe of the class, I would drop it and pick something different.
Taking courses online can feel very isolating at times so make sure you use all the resources available to you for free as a Queen’s student. Student Academic Success Services (SASS) is a fantastic starting point for students returning to school. Career Services is amazing for career planning and info on graduate schools. The Ban Righ Centre is a good way to connect for women-identifying mature students and offer some online programming as well as being a great way to connect with other mature students.
If you are able, make sure you attend your graduation ceremony. I was reluctant to go at first, but it was such an inspiring event. We tend to downplay our accomplishments, but it’s important to celebrate all your hard work.
Greetings! Pleased to meet you, my name is Maria. I received my Bachelor of Arts in History (with distinction), and Academic Writing Certificate through Queen’s Arts and Science online. In addition to completing my Bachelor of Education P/J (dean’s list) to become a certified teacher from Lakehead University. My educational journey has continued to become a Master of Education student in Social Justice Education at Lakehead University. Having experienced online studies, I understand both the challenges and successes of being an online student and would love to help other Queen’s students reach their goals.
I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of education as a tool for creating transformative social change. I am passionate about creating inclusive learning environments that empower individuals and communities to address systemic inequalities and promote social justice. Navigating through the online distance learning landscape can feel daunting but there is help out there as I experienced as an online student. I live in the GTA and my other interests include enjoying the outdoors, running, and photography.
I look forward to assisting you whether you are experiencing difficulties with courses, mental health questions, feeling disconnected from the Queen’s community, or any concern you may need a helping hand with. Always remember anything is possible!
Hello! My name is Aisling (Ash) and I received my Bachelor in Psychology (with distinction) and Academic Writing Certificate through Queen’s Arts & Science Online in June of 2021. I completed an honours thesis at the University of Waterloo, and I also have a BFA from Toronto Metropolitan University. I’m used to both online and in-person post-secondary learning. I am currently in my first year of a direct-entry PhD in Psychology (specializing in cognitive neuropsychology), at the University of Toronto and the Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest. Aside from psychology, my interests lie in history, gardening, cycling and skiing, watching F1, cooking, and music.
As a mature student enjoying a second round of post-secondary education, I find balancing university, work, and family life a rewarding challenge that uses the skills I developed during my first career.
Sharing information about the many resources open to Queen’s University distance students and the study or time management techniques that work for me is a highlight of being a Queen’s student.
This is my fourth year as a peer mentor. If you have questions about communicating with your TA, how to break down a syllabus, or where to find the extra resources at the library, I’m happy to help.
