Perspectives From Project REACH: A Participatory Peer-Mentorship Program for Neurodiverse College Students

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 78
  In Roundtable Session: Institutional Influences on Student Experiences

Abstract

As part of a broad initiative to improve the college experiences of neurodiverse students, we developed a participatory peer mentorship program (Project REACH) at the College of Staten Island (CSI). The current study aimed to a) identify the goals and expectations of mentors and mentees prior to their participation in Project REACH; b) determine the specific aspects of the program that the participants experienced positively; and c) explore the perspectives of mentees who transitioned to becoming mentors in the program. This research also evaluated participants’ feedback regarding future iterations of Project REACH. Findings from the current study support a participatory framework for peer mentorship programs serving neurodiverse college students.

Authors

• Emily Hotez, Hunter College

• Ariana Riccio, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

• Danielle DeNigris

• Nichols Tricarico, College of Staten Island

• Billy Pinkava, College of Staten Island

• Patricia J. Brooks, The Graduate Center - CUNY

• Joanne D'onofrio

• Maruf Hossain, Hunter College

• Paula Bongiovanni, College of Staten Island

• Kristen Gillespie-Lynch, College of Staten Island