Peer Leadership Establishes Connections Beyond the Classroom

Establishing lifelong peer connections begins with open discussions and team-bonding experiences as acknowledged by the 14 seniors selected for the Peer Leadership program in hosting Activity Day at the Skiff Street Athletic Complex for the freshman class.

The 2024-2025 Peer Leaders are Theodora Aslan, Chase Benivegna, De’ron Dickerson, Lauren Golioio, Calvin Gormley, Delilah Hodge, Eric Huang, Addison Letizia, Daniella Li, Grayson Nichols, Mara Patterson, Sanjiv Persaud, Asher Wasserman, and Nyla Zundell. The group is advised by faculty members Tricia Dowcett and Jennifer Manley.

“I chose to apply for the Peer Leadership Program because when I was in ninth grade I loved my Peer Leader and wanted to do the same for the current class as the program helped me find my footing,” said Mara. “I really love being a Peer Leader because in the outreaches so far, I can see them opening up a lot more and feeling more confident in themselves. I love that I get to be a part of their journey and help them grow.”

The morning began with icebreakers and introductions as the freshmen were broken up in seven groups with two senior Peer Leaders at the helm of each. The Peer Leaders facilitated conversations about various personal topics meant to break down barriers and create dialogue. One activity titled What’s In a Name encouraged students to share and discuss the history and significance of their moniker as a way to connect with one another on a deeper level.

Other activities included Pass the Question, I Like People Who, and Circle the Circle/Interlock where the students stand in a circle holding hands with two hula hoops resting on their hands with the goal of passing the hoops quickly around the circle in opposite directions. The day ended with a pizza lunch and group reflections before everyone headed back to campus.

Established in 1989, the Princeton Peer Leadership Program serves as a valuable student network and mentoring opportunity for Upper School students to connect with and guide the incoming freshman. The Peer Leaders meet throughout the year with their freshman groups for advisory sessions, mentoring workshops, and hands-on projects. The year-long program fosters leadership development and streamlines student success beyond the classroom.