The power of peer support

Peer supporters are fully trained student volunteers that can help guide you through student life. They understand the ups and downs of the university experience and can help navigate through them. These are some of the benefits of accessing peer support.

Encourage inclusivity
Peer support provides a welcoming space for students to share their experiences. Students are free to ask questions or discuss anything that’s on their mind. Peer support programs encourage new perspectives, reduce stigmas, and strengthen the community by creating an inclusive environment and sense of belonging.

Connect with others
For some students, university can be an isolating time. With many courses making the switch to online-learning, students can miss out on the social connections they once made in the classroom. Peer support allows you to check in and feel connected to others when you may be feeling alone.

There to help you through a hard time
Volunteers always have your wellbeing in mind. They are trained to assist and advocate, both in groups and one-on-one. Peer supporters can help you access mental health resources, workshops and training, and can recognize when students may need to seek additional support.

Access support in diverse spaces
Peer Support offers unique environments where students can find support that resonates with them, whether through wellness services, cultural or spiritual guidance, spaces dedicated to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion, or recovery communities, ensuring that all students can access the type of peer support they need. 

Develop your professional skills
Take the opportunity to get advice from other students who have already started their academic journey. Peer supporters can help you navigate the campus, let you know what groups or clubs to join, and give you advice on how to prepare for your courses. Peer support can enrich your academic experience and be an essential factor in building the confidence you need to transition during and after university.

Whether you’re interested in becoming a peer supporter, or in need of support, connecting with other students can greatly benefit your wellbeing.

Peer Support Locations & Hours

• Student Wellness Services: Peer support is available at the Health and Wellness Clinic Monday to Friday, 1—4 p.m., Sept. 22 to Dec. 5 (excluding Fall Break), in MacEwan Student Centre (MSC) 370.
• Faith and Spirituality Centre: Peer support is offered Sept. 29 to Dec. 5 (excluding Fall Break), in MacEwan Student Centre (MSC) 487, with hours to be announced.
• Women’s Resource Centre: Peer support is available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.—4:30 p.m., Sept. 29 to Dec. 5 (excluding Fall Break), in MacEwan Student Centre (MSC) 482.
• UCalgary Recovery Community: Peer support meetings run weekly at set times (Monday to Thursday) at 5 - 3500 24 Avenue NW, in Yamnuska Hall.
• Q Centre (SU Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity): Peer support is available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.—5 p.m., in MacEwan Student Centre (MSC) 210, with additional support by email during spring and summer.

All meetings with peer supporters are confidential unless you pose a risk to yourself or others.