Peer Education
The Cleveland State University Peer Education program seeks to empower students by providing information and support for responsible decision-making and positive role modeling. Peer Educators (PEs) are trained student volunteers that address topics related to alcohol and drug use; sexual violence prevention and healthy relationships; suicide education and prevention; and general wellness.
New this semester, the Health & Wellness Center launched a new expansion – the International Student Peer Education (ISPE) program. Specifically, the ISPE program addresses health and safety concerns through individual interactions and by facilitating large group training sessions with international students. Five of the six ISPE leaders are masters or doctoral students from science, education, and engineering programs. These educators model appropriate behaviors for peers and are trained to create positive peer-to-peer environment, work in a team to discuss health & wellness issues, recommend resources, and refer students to campus services with a goal to build a supportive, safe and healthy campus for international students and create a support network focusing on self-care and personal health.
International Student Peer Educator, Chika Morkah, MA, Psychology, will also complete the Master of Arts in Psychology - Diversity Management in Sp '19. This degree combines cultural competence and leadership development, a perfect match for Morkah’s work with ISPE. This first of its kind wellness group in the U.S., helps international students better understand their new environment. Morkah explained, “Peer Educators help all CSU students and the ISPE team specializes in unique needs and services for the international student body. Helping people and being a resource for others has always been a major part of my core. Having access to necessary information, timely resources, and positive role-modeling improves the experience of all students on CSU’s campus.”
The Health & Wellness Center is currently recruiting for 2019/20. If you are interested in PE or ISPE leadership or other volunteer opportunities, contact Denise Keary, Health and Wellness Coordinator, 216-687-3649.
