ChantiPEERS

ChantiPEERS

The purpose of the ChantiPEERS program is to extend the freshman orientation program in order to provide one-on-one mentoring, support, guidance, leadership and friendship by successful upperclassmen and women to freshmen Protégés.  Whenever possible, ChantiPEERS are matched with Protégés who share the same academic major.  The program is designed to assist freshmen in reaching academic goals, developing opportunities for participation in new social networks, encouraging involvement in the University, local and global community and overall becoming acclimated to the lifestyle of a successful university student.

What is a ChantiPEER?

A ChantiPEER is an upperclassmen or woman who has volunteered to work with Protégé participants as they transition into the Coastal Carolina University community.  A ChantiPEER seeks to do the following:

1. Support, encourage, provide information and guidance that will help Protégés reach their goals
2. Encourage involvement in campus activities and organizations
3. Serve as a positive role model
4. Serve as a guide in understanding the University community and its’ resources
5. Share personal experience and knowledge and examples of Smart Choices

Goals of the ChantiPEERS

1. To introduce new students to university life and broaden students’ access to all that Coastal Carolina has to offer.
2. To help participants gain knowledge of campus resources, including academic, special interest, social and healthy-lifestyle related networks. 
3. To promote involvement in the campus, local and global community.
4. To establish ongoing, meaningful relationships between ChantiPEERS and Protégés.

Training

Trainings are held for new ChantiPEERS each semester and are completed in one day typically on a weekend.   ChantiPEERS are trained in areas including how to respond to:

1. Academic stress
2. Realization that his/her study skills are inadequate for college
3. Feeling homesick
4. Values exploration, especially in the area of sexuality
5. Alcohol problems may become evident
6. Self-esteem/concept issues
7. Feeling of loss/failure associated with grades
8. Roommate conflicts
9. Communication issues
10. Time management issues
11. Sexual conflicts
12. Social difficulties, not making many friends
13. Campus resources for dealing with anxiety, depression, health/medical issues
14. Getting involved with university clubs and organizations

After a ChantiPEER has completed the required reference checks and training, regular meetings are scheduled with the ChantiPEERS as a group.   When needed, ChantiPEERS may also meet with the advisor individually.

What is a Protégé?

1. A freshman, sophomore or transfer student who may be:
1. Having difficulty finding his or her way around the campus community
2. A student who may be experiencing feelings of homesickness or trouble making new friends
3. Not sure how to get involved on campus
4. Is looking for a peer mentor to guide them through a difficult time

How do I become a ChantiPEER or a Protégé?

Applications for both ChantiPEERS and Protégés are available in Counseling Services in the Student Health/Counseling Services building. Completed applications should be returned to Counseling Services, Attn:  Chris Donevant-Haines.