Resources in Education and Advocacy for Current Huskies, or REACHing Peers is a three-fold peer mentoring program that consists of:
- Opportunities for prospective UConn students with disabilities to connect with current UConn students that are registered with the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD);
- Mentor-Mentee relationships amongst current UConn students registered with the CSD; and
- Linking current UConn students with a network of CSD alumni for career and post-graduate preparation.
For more information about the REACHing Peers program, please email Allison Knight, Disability Service Professional, at csdpeers@uconn.edu.
Goals of REACHing Peers
- Create a network of peers to support incoming students in their transitions to UConn.
- Provide students with a sense of belonging and connectedness at UConn.
- Promote empowerment, engagement, and self-advocacy through peers supporting peers.
- Provide opportunities for experienced students registered with the CSD to assist incoming students through similar experiences, such as learning CSD procedures (e.g., requesting accommodation letters, coordinating accommodations), adjusting to life in the residence halls, and communicating with faculty.
Prospective Students
Prospective students who would like to learn more about UConn and the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) can be matched with an e-Peer. An e-Peer is an UConn student registered with the CSD who will be able to share their experiences and respond to your questions. Please email csdpeers@uconn.edu your questions and/or requests for a connection with a current student.
REACH Mentees
REACH Mentees are first year, transfer, or newly registered students who are beginning their experience at UConn and/or with the CSD.
Being a REACH Mentee will provide you with the opportunity to connect with your peers and become part of a network of support and community students with disabilities at UConn. Mentees and Mentors communicate at least weekly and will meet at least once a month.
REACH Mentors
REACH Mentors are students with disabilities who have previously identified with CSD and have experience navigating life at UConn. Most importantly, REACH Mentors are fellow students and peers who will be able to empathize with the experiences of their Mentees.
Being a REACH Mentor will provide you with the opportunity to assist a fellow students in their transition to the UConn and CSD. You will have the chance to support your peers and contribute to a network of support and community for students with disabilities at UConn. Mentors and Mentees will comminicate at least weekly and will meet at least once a month.
As a REACH Mentor, you will provide information about UConn and CSD resources, share personal experiences and advice with new students, provide updates and feedback to the REACH coordinator, and maintain the privacy and trust of your Mentee.
Alumni
REACHing Peers also offers alumni-student mentoring to provide an opportunity for current UConn students and CSD alumni to engage in a mentor-mentee partnership, consisting of conversations pertaining to career preparation and life after graduating from UConn.