Building Connections through the Peer Guide Program

a colorful note that reads "need help?"
Categories: Student Voices Academic Success
June 11th, 2025
By Kaitlyn Casagrande

Starting your journey at Penn State World Campus can feel overwhelming, especially in an online environment, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Peer Guide Program, offered through a dedicated Canvas course, is here to support students through their first three semesters. It’s filled with helpful resources, advice, and real student support that makes a big difference.

What is the Peer Guide Program?

The Peer Guide Program pairs experienced World Campus students with new students to provide mentorship during their early semesters. Through weekly discussion boards, curated resources, and regular check-ins, Peer Guides offer insight, encouragement, and practical help as students navigate their academic paths. In addition, Peer Guides hold weekly Zoom office hours available in both group and one-on-one formats, ensuring students always have someone to turn to.

Who Are the Peer Guides?

Peer Guides are students just like you who are balancing course work, responsibilities, and personal goals. Because we’ve been where you are, we can offer authentic, relatable advice and support. Our goal is to walk alongside you, providing guidance that truly reflects the realities of being a World Campus student.

How Can a Peer Guide Help You?

As a Peer Guide myself, I’ve had the privilege of supporting students while also growing alongside them. This program was designed to provide the kind of support and resources many of us wish we had when we started. Online learning can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also feel isolating at times. That’s where we come in, helping you build confidence, stay motivated, and feel part of a community. We’re here to support your academic and personal growth by sharing tools for success, answering questions, and simply being someone you can talk to. Whether you’re facing challenges or celebrating milestones, Peer Guides are here to cheer you on and help you thrive. Together, we’re not just working toward graduation — we’re building connections that make the journey meaningful.

Connecting with Your Peer Guide

New students can explore the Peer Guide Program in their Canvas dashboard. To connect with your Peer Guide, you can find their contact information and schedule an appointment with them in Starfish.

Becoming a Peer Guide

Peer Guides are experienced World Campus students who are hired through federal work-study. Focused on peer mentorship, the position provides students with hands-on learning experiences that will help to develop valuable and transferable skills. If you have an interest in becoming a Peer Guide or questions about the program, email [email protected].

Related Content: