THRIVE Peer Mentoring Program
Where Blue Hens thrive together.
The University of Delaware’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) offers peer-led mentoring to support students transitioning from UD’s associate in Arts elementary and middle school teacher education (AA EME) program, as well as those transferring from another major or institution into UD’s elementary and middle school teacher education (EME) program. Our mentors are Blue Hen leaders uniquely positioned to help transitioning and transfer students successfully navigate the EME program and the Newark campus.
To join THRIVE Peer Mentoring Program or become a peer mentor, reach out to THRIVE Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator, Dr. Teresa Hickok.
Framework
The program is guided by the following principles that form the acronym THRIVE:
Transition & Transfer Support: Mentors assist mentees with the initial, practical aspects of transitioning to UD’s Newark campus and the EME program. This includes connecting students with their academic advisors for course registration and program requirements. Serving as a supplement to advising, mentors help mentees access campus resources and adapt to the academic and social expectations of university life.
Habits for Success: Mentors help mentees in building the academic, professional and personal habits essential for thriving at UD and beyond.
Resource Sharing: Mentors connect mentees to a wide range of campus services, academic tools and program-specific information.
Integration: Mentors use compassion and empathy to promote belonging, helping mentees build meaningful connections with fellow Blue Hens, the School of Education and the broader university community.
Volunteering: Mentors lead by example—engaging in and encouraging involvement in service, leadership and activities that strengthen recruitment, retention and teacher identity.
Excellence: Mentors inspire mentees to pursue high standards in their academic work, field experiences and professional preparation through continuous growth and reflective practice. Through positive role modeling and accountability, mentors help Blue Hens develop the confidence, habits and professionalism needed to excel at UD and in their future teaching careers.
Eligibility
Preference for THRIVE Peer Mentor positions will be given to EME students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 at the time of application. However, any AA EME or EME student seeking transition or transfer support is eligible to become a THRIVE Mentee, regardless of GPA.
Applicants may be asked to complete a brief interview so we can better understand how to support you and make the best match possible.
Please note that because the ratio of mentors to mentees varies each year, placement in the program cannot be guaranteed.
Mentor Responsibilities
The responsibilities of THRIVE peer mentors align with the program framework to help them:
- Mentor 1–3 assigned students throughout the academic year.
- Attend the required peer mentor training workshop in August.
- Meet regularly with mentees and participate in routine program check-ins.
- Provide guidance about transitioning to Newark, course expectations and navigating campus.
- Support mentees in setting academic, professional and personal goals.
- Share strategies for balancing coursework, field experiences, employment and personal responsibilities.
- Offer encouragement and support during important transition periods.
- Connect mentees with relevant university or professional resources and support services.
- Serve as a positive role model while maintaining professionalism, confidentiality and respect for all.
- Maintain required mentoring records and communications.
- Attend the Flex Pathway transition orientation event (if mentoring a rising junior).
- Participate in CEHD recruitment and community-building events.
For questions about the program, please reach out to THRIVE Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator Dr. Teresa Hickok.