What is a Peer Mentor?

Peer mentors support and encourage student success, specifically new and first or second year students. Peer Mentors help students throughout the academic year through one-on-one and group meetings. Peer Mentors are knowledgeable guides for students – someone who can provide access to ideas, study tips, resources and serve as a role model and advocate.

View Student Center Information and Hours

Responsibilities of a Peer Mentor

  • Serve as an enthusiastic, positive role model and resource to help students succeed.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with and provide assistance for students (focus on a smooth transition, acclimation, and a sense of belonging).
  • Plan / attend various events for students such as career exploration, skills training, and study tips.
  • Help facilitate and encourage student attendance to the above referenced events.

Meet your Peer Mentors for 2023-2024

Sophia Meador

 

Hello! My name is Sophia, and I am a third-year majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication and Political Science. Outside of school, I am the Opinions Editor and designer at The Daily Iowan, and I work at the downtown Iowa City Starbucks. Some interests of mine include column writing, investigative research, and design. As a peer mentor, one of the best ways I can assist you is in workshopping your writing. I have experience in both journalistic and nonfiction writing. Additionally, I can help with classes such as Media History and Culture, Media Ethics and Diversity, and Freedom of Expression.

 

Sophia Meador

 

My office hours are: 

  • Mondays: 12pm - 5pm
  • Tuesdays: 12:15pm-3:15pm
  • Wednesdays: 3pm - 7pm
  • Thursdays: 12:15pm-3:15pm

Email: sophia-meador@uiowa.edu

 

Sophia Restiffe-Favoretto

 

Hi! I’m an international student from Brazil at the University of Iowa. I’m a junior in Journalism Mass Communication, double majoring in Italian. I’m a huge advocate for international students! I’m an International Student Ambassador for the Office of Admissions. So, if you are an international student (or not!) don’t hesitate to reach out to me!  

Sophia RF

 

My office hours are: 

  • Mondays: 9:30am - 11:00am and 12:15pm - 2:15pm
  • Tuesdays: 10:15am - 12:15pm
  • Wednesdays: 12:15pm - 2:15
  • Thursdays: 10:15am - 12:15pm

Email: sophia-restiffefavoretto@uiowa.edu 

 

Josh Rihner

 

Hey! My name is Josh, and I am a third-year double majoring in Journalism and Political Science. Outside of school, I have been on the executive team for the Undergraduate Political Science Association, and have worked as a freelancer for the Harlan Tribune. Some of my interests include creative writing, opinion writing, and feature writing. I have the most experience with the writing and editing process, but I can also help with photography and some video/audio! If you ever need help with class or someone to visit with, feel free to stop by!

Josh R

 

My office hours are: 

  • Mondays 9am - 2pm
  • Wednesdays 9am - 2pm

Email: joshua-rihner@uiowa.edu 

 

Sahithi Shankaiahgari

 

Hi! My name is Sahithi, and I am a fourth-year double majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication and International Relations, with a Political Science minor and Non-profit Leadership and Philanthropy Certificate. I am experienced in multimedia journalism with videography and photography, as well as writing and editing too! As a peer mentor, I would love to help out with any of your questions and concerns regarding classes, in general, or if you'd just like someone to talk to! Feel free to stop by at my office hours anytime to chat!

Sahithi S

 

My office hours are:

  • Mondays: 12:30pm - 3:30pm
  • Tuesdays: 12:30pm - 3:30pm
  • Wednesday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm
  • Thursdays 12:30pm - 3:30pm

Email: sahithi-shankaiahgari@uiowa.edu