Pathways Peer Advocacy looking for students to become advocates
It’s getting to be that time in the semester where things are at their toughest: projects are due, tests are happening, and all the while the end of the semester is ominously approaching (which for me, a graduating senior, means that I have to figure out what exactly it is I want to do with my life). And this is not even to mention managing school along with work, friends, and self-care—and you know what? Sometimes it just feels like a lot, because it is a lot. And trust me, it really sucks crying in the Union bathroom when no one is answering your calls or texts and all the things are happening at once.
It is moments like these that Pathways: Geneseo Peer Advocacy might be able to help. Pathways is a peer emotional support program. Essentially, a group of students train to respond to individuals who call, email, or Google Chat about a difficult issue that they are struggling with. They deal with a variety of issues, including loneliness, worry, confusion, stress, relationship issues, and much more. Peer Advocates, or the students who are here to talk, are trained to listen and provide emotional support for students who are struggling with whatever issue is going on for them. On top of that, advocates also provide resources whenever necessary, such as places to find counselors, hotlines for various issues, support groups and/or organizations that might help.
Pathways can be contacted by email or Google Chat between the hours of 8 p.m. and midnight, as well as by phone from 8 p.m.–8 a.m. Sunday through Thursday when school is in session. You can call them at (585) 237-8860, entering *67 to ensure anonymity, or you can email or Google Chat with them via the email geneseopeeradvocacy@gmail.com.
One important thing to mention is that peer advocates do not give advice—advocates are not trained counselors or clinical professionals, though they are highly competent; they are instead employed to provide support.
That all being said, if you are interested in counseling as a career and/or want to help students by offering emotional support, Pathways is looking for new trainees. They have a 10-weeklong training program that is rigorous, yet highly rewarding. As a trainee myself, I have really enjoyed the program and am excited (if nervous) for evaluations. Keep your fingers crossed for me, folks!
Information sessions are being held on Monday, Nov. 14, at 2:30 and 3 p.m. in Bailey 201. Come talk to the advocates about how to become an advocate, what it’s like to be an advocate, and to find out if this program is right for you.
