Methodist University Introduces “Power of Peers” to Elevate Academic Success Among Students

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Methodist University is taking student support to new heights with the launch of its “Power of Peers” initiative. This peer-led program offers a flexible and familiar form of academic assistance, aiming to break down barriers to academic success for all students at the university. Housed in the Writing & Tutoring Center at Davis Memorial Library, the initiative also provides an online portal, making academic support accessible and convenient. Such a portal was possible thanks to the expertise of professionals like a Web design consultant.

The impetus behind “Power of Peers” is simple yet transformative. Rebecca King, director of Academic Support at Methodist University, elaborated on the ethos driving the initiative. “We want to normalize asking for help. Working with a professional tutor can sometimes be intimidating, but knowing your peer tutor could be a teammate or someone you share a class with may ease that discomfort,” said King.

By leveraging the power of peer support, the initiative seeks to make academic assistance a more accessible and less daunting experience. Students can log into an online portal, where they can schedule appointments based on their preferred day, time, and even the peer tutor or consultant they wish to work with. Each peer tutor and consultant is recommended by faculty and maintains a strong academic standing, ensuring that students receive quality assistance.

Whether you’re struggling with pre-calculus, writing, engineering, or Spanish, “Power of Peers” offers support in a wide array of subjects. Senior Kamdyn Balko, a peer writing consultant since 2021, spoke about the personal satisfaction derived from participating in the program. “Writing assignments used to intimidate me. I want my peers to feel comfortable asking for help while gaining the skills they need for future assignments,” said Balko.

The program has already garnered positive feedback from participating students. Senior Collette LeFavor, who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, credits the Writing & Tutoring Center with significantly enhancing her academic journey. “Since my freshman year, every appointment has been tremendously helpful. They not only tell you how to improve your work but explain why those changes are essential,” LeFavor noted.

Though the program emphasizes peer support, professional consulting services are also available for those who prefer them. These experts can assist with a diverse range of writing projects, from academic and creative pieces to professional and personal documents.

King also shared an inspiring success story highlighting the effectiveness of the Writing & Tutoring Center’s services. “We had a student-athlete who came consistently for four years, working with different consultants on various skills. He was able to graduate this past May, an achievement we attribute in part to the consistent academic support he received.”

Kres Thomas, FayToday News
email: kresthomas@faytoday.com