For more than a decade, Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) Peer Mentoring Program has helped first-year students navigate one of life’s biggest transitions. While the program connects students with campus resources and experienced peer mentors, this year’s participant reflections reveal that its greatest impact extends well beyond academics.
Students consistently describe gaining confidence, building meaningful relationships, and discovering a sense of belonging that shaped their college experience. That newfound confidence is a common thread throughout this year’s student stories.
Like many first-year students, Keyon, a participant in Rockford University‘s Men of Confidence, questioned whether he had time to participate while balancing football and the demands of college life. Looking back, however, he considers joining one of the best decisions he made.
“The friendships, study sessions, and support from the mentors helped me through one of the toughest parts of my freshman year and reminded me that I didn’t have to navigate college alone.“
Tevin expressed that the program turned his uncertainty into a sense of belonging. Unsure of where he would fit in on campus, he quickly found a supportive community that transformed his college experience and motivated him to give back.
“I felt like I had found another family on campus. The friendships, encouragement, and opportunities to learn from alumni helped me grow, and now I’m excited to give back by serving as a peer mentor for the next group of students.”
For Joel, also a member of Rockford’s Men of Confidence mentoring program, joining the program marked a turning point.
“Before joining the program, I was quiet and didn’t really interact with many people. Over the course of the year, I gained confidence, built friendships, and found mentors who always encouraged me to keep moving forward. The program helped me believe in myself.“
Ashley, a student at Illinois College, shared a similar experience. Through the program, she discovered campus resources, developed lasting relationships, and gained the confidence to become a leader herself. Now preparing to serve as a peer mentor, she sees the opportunity as a way to invest in future students while continuing her own personal growth.
“It’s a chance to give back to other students while developing leadership skills that will stay with me long after graduation.“
Although each student’s journey is unique, their reflections point to a shared outcome: success begins with connection. When students know they have someone who believes in them, encourages them, and helps them navigate unfamiliar challenges, they are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and personally. That ripple effect is one of the program’s greatest strengths.
As today’s mentees become tomorrow’s mentors, they create a culture of support that extends far beyond a single academic year. Each new cohort strengthens a growing network of students committed to helping one another succeed.