Imagine being a college student and taking a full course load. Of course, you’ll need time to attend class, study, eat, sleep, participate in clubs and organizations, and relax.
Now imagine that you’re a student-athlete.
In addition to the previous list, you now have to ensure that you are on time for practices and games, and you may even be following a strict diet. Finally, imagine that along with these two significant roles, you’re also a peer mentor.
Winthrop University prides itself in providing the First Year Experience program for first year students. The program, directed by Leah Kendall in University College, ensures that first year students are making a smooth transition from high school to college life.
It covers important topics, such as using your planner, meeting with your advisor, checking interim grades and much more.
Before this process, academically strong, well-rounded upperclassmen are trained to teach the ACAD course as they prepare to be peer mentors and role models for the incoming students. They learn things like making and following lesson plans and how to connect with first year students, ensuring that they will have a smooth transition.
In addition to being among the first year students’ first teachers, peer mentors are also described as students’ first friend on campus. Balancing being a student athlete, a peer mentor, and a full time student can be a challenge.
Joey Jennings is a senior sociology major with a concentration in criminology, Spanish minor and pole vaulter for the track and field team. He said he has a plan on how to juggle his three significant roles.
“This semester, we spend around 8-10 [hours practicing per week] because we’re in preseason and next semester we practice around 20 hours a week,” Jennings said. “I plan to balance them fifty–fifty. With that being said, I feel there needs to be a switch for both. In athletics, I understand that my mind needs to be there, and I need to give one hundred percent in both aspects of my life. That’s the type of person I am, and I’m dedicated to all my crafts.”
Even with a busy schedule, it’s easy to give back, as Jennings remembers his own transition into college.
“To me, FYE is pivotal for everyone at this university. It’s a special thing what the FYE department does for first year students, and how much they care about these students. I can say, without FYE, my personal transition would not have been as easy. In my opinion, FYE is a culture that helps Winthrop excel,” Jennings said.