Resources in Education and Advocacy for Current Huskies
REACHing Peers is a three-fold peer mentoring program that consists of:
Prospective UConn students with disabilities connecting with current UConn students that are registered with the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD)
Mentor-Mentee relationships amongst current UConn students registered with the CSD
Linking current UConn students with a network of CSD alumni for career and post-graduate preparation
REACHing Peers Program Contact
Allison Knight, Disability Service Professional
csdpeers@uconn.edu
Goals of REACHing Peers
- Create a network of peers to support incoming students in their transitions to UConn.
- Provide students with a sense of belonging and connectedness at UConn.
- Promote empowerment, engagement, and self-advocacy through peers supporting peers.
- Provide opportunities for students registered with the CSD to assist incoming students through similar experiences.
Become a REACH Mentee
REACH Mentees are first year, transfer, or newly registered UConn students who are beginning their experience at UConn and/or with the CSD.
Being a REACH Mentee will provide you with the opportunity to connect with your peers and become part of a network of support and community students with disabilities at UConn. Mentees and Mentors communicate at least weekly and will meet at least once a month.
Become a REACH Mentor
REACH Mentors are students with disabilities who have previously identified with CSD and have experience navigating life at UConn. Most importantly, REACH Mentors are fellow students and peers who will be able to empathize with the experiences of their Mentees.
Being a REACH Mentor will provide you with the opportunity to assist a fellow students in their transition to the UConn and CSD. You will have the chance to support your peers and contribute to a network of support and community for students with disabilities at UConn. Mentors and Mentees will comminicate at least weekly and will meet at least once a month.
As a REACH Mentor, you will provide information about UConn and CSD resources, share personal experiences and advice with new students, provide updates and feedback to the REACH coordinator, and maintain the privacy and trust of your Mentee.
Prospective UConn Students
Prospective students who would like to learn more about UConn and the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) can be matched with an e-Peer. An e-Peer is an UConn student registered with the CSD who will be able to share their experiences and respond to your questions.
Email your questions and/or requests for a connection with a current student to:
CSD Alumni
REACHing Peers offers alumni-student mentoring to provide an opportunity for current UConn students and CSD alumni to engage in a mentor-mentee partnership, consisting of conversations pertaining to career preparation and life after graduating from UConn.
Become an alumni contact for the CSD REACHing Peers program: