Become a Peer Educator

Eligibility

All UC Irvine undergraduates with a minimum GPA of 2.5 are eligible to apply for the Peer Educator Program. 

Applications for the 2024-2025 year are now available. Application deadline is April 22nd, 2024 at 5pm Pacific time.  Please fill out the application and make sure to turn it electronically to ucipeereducators@gmail.com. Interviews will be held on May 18th, 2024.

Only one recommendation form is required, but two are preferred.

Training

While not all inclusive, the following provides a general overview of training topics typically addressed:

• Primary Prevention in Mental Health Services
• Consultation and Outreach Skills
• Team Development and Leadership
• Experiential Learning
• Teaching and Presentation Skills
• Workshop/Curriculum Development
• Stigma Reduction and Suicide Prevention
• Multiculturalism and Mental Health Services
• College Student Development
• Specific Mental Health/Psychoeducational Training in Stress Management, Depression, Intimate Relationships, and Mediation Skills

Job Benefits

ACADEMIC CREDIT

Peers receive 3 units/quarter of 198 Group Study on a pass/no pass basis. Winter and Spring Quarters are also approved for Social Ecology 195, Field Study.

PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

While involved in this program you will provide direct service to students through workshops. You will be supervised by a licensed therapist from the Counseling Center. Because graduate schools tend to value practical experience, the Peer Educator program can be a helpful addition to your transcripts and resume.

INCREASE YOUR SKILLS

You will learn what your strengths and weaknesses are in dealing with mental health education and prevention. You will also learn how to design and deliver workshops, refer students for counseling, and receive training on: communication skills, bystander training, and suicide prevention.

OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OTHERS

With your new and/or increased skills you will be able to assist others in understanding mental health, managing their stress, and enhancing their self-esteem.

TRAINING FROM PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS

Peer Educators are trained by experienced and recognized professionals within their field of expertise.

Questions?

Questions about applying to the Peer Educator Program can be addressed to Saimir Thano, Ph.D. Instructor/Coordinator at sthano@uci.edu.