How Peer Mentoring Supports Neurodivergent Students

"“A lot of our students are capable of having successful social relationships and friendships, but sometimes they need that person there to be their transitional support,” said Damilatis-Kull. “That safe person in the room with them, so they know that if they go to a club meeting for the first time, they're not going into a space where they don't know anyone.”"

"She added that for many students-particularly neurodivergent students-transitioning from having the same group of friends and teachers who have known them for years to going to college, where classes and social interactions shift rapidly, can be challenging."

"Through structured peer relationships, students have the opportunity to build friendships, strengthen communication skills and gain confidence navigating campus life, said Diana Damilatis-Kull, director of the Bridges to Adelphi program. It also gives neurodivergent students opportunities to practice navigating social situations in real time, helping them develop confidence and stronger connections within the campus community, she said."

College requires balancing independent living, complex schedules, and new social networks, which contributes to ongoing student mental health challenges. For neurodivergent students, unfamiliar environments and new people can make the transition especially difficult. Adelphi University’s Bridges to Adelphi program, launched in 2014, provides neurodivergent student support through peer mentoring. Trained peer mentors meet with students weekly and participate in campus events or explore student organizations together. Structured peer relationships help students build friendships, strengthen communication skills, and gain confidence navigating campus life. The program also creates real-time opportunities to practice social situations and develop stronger connections within the campus community, while offering transitional support during major changes in classes and social interactions.

Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs