Peer2Peer is a mentoring program designed to support first year SSS participants with the transition to college life through the guidance and assistance of upper class SSS students. Peer2Peer combines one on one meetings between mentors and mentees with group activities and meetings. The primary goals of the Peer2Peer mentoring program are to enrich the personal and academic development of first year SSS participants while building the leadership skills of upper class SSS students. The objectives of the program are:
Mentors
Mentors must submit a complete application, which includes areas of interest, major, career goals, extra-curricular activities, and a short essay explaining why he or she wants to participate in the program. In addition, a mentor applicant must meet the following criteria:
Mentees
Mentees must submit a complete application which includes areas of interest, major, career goals, extra-curricular activities, and a short essay explaining why he or she wants to participate in the program. In addition, mentee applicants must meet the following criteria: Be a first year SSS student and possess a sincere desire to meet with a mentor.
Both mentor and mentee must meet twice a month for at least one hour at a location that is convenient for them. Mentors and mentees must also attend all group activities and meetings as planned. Activities and meetings are held two to three times per semester.
Hello! My name is Alexis, and I am a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences. I am majoring in Exercise Science on the pre-PA track. I am from Sioux City, Iowa. I am not only involved in SSS, but also a part of Delta Delta Delta, Creighton Chaarg, and Peer2Peer. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with friends, watching tv, playing tennis, and shopping. I love being a part of Student Support Services. As a first-generation low-income student, I feel like they are there for you. As soon as you meet anyone in the office you know right away, they want the best for you and will do anything to get you to where you want to be here at Creighton. It is also nice because we have study rooms that we are only allowed to use, and it is always quiet in there. I am very excited to be a mentor for the incoming freshmen students this upcoming year! I cannot wait to meet everyone!
Hi, I’m Aniyah Durham! I'm a rising junior currently enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences. I am majoring in English with a minor in Justice and Peace studies. I’m homegrown here in Omaha. I am currently involved with the Schlegel Center for Service and Justice. I also work on campus at the law library. I am an avid reader, always looking for book recommendations, I actively watch cartoons, and love exploring new restaurants in and around town. The SSS program has been really transformative in my college career. I have received support that has greatly improved my connections on campus, my academic performance, and hepled me to balance work and my social engagements. My advisor as well as the other members in this program have regularly encouraged me to put myself out there and create connections with other people and my professors. I understand the struggles of being a commuter student and feeling a sense of disconnect from the community on campus and this program will be a great way to connect with and meet people. If you enjoy being passionate about the stuff you love or connecting with others, I look forward to meeting with you and getting to build a relationship with you. I can't wait to hear from you.
My name is Brandon Kohatsu. I'm a rising Junior in the Heider College of Business School. I am studying Management on the Pre-Law track with a Philosophy minor. I am from Waimanalo, Hawaii. I am a part of Creighton’s Hawaii Club, Hui O Hawaii, Creighton Mock Trial, and the Jiu Jitsu club.
Things I enjoy doing in my free time include watching sports like football or basketball, playing basketball, doing jiu jitsu and hanging out with my friends. I enjoy being a part of Student Support Services because of all the benefits that we gain from being in the program. I love the tutoring SSS offers because it is something I use throughout the year when I need help for certain subjects. I also like the support I get from my coach as well as being able to register for classes earlier than my peers. These things make SSS one of the best programs. I am excited for what the new school year has to offer and intend on growing as a person while meeting lots of new people.
Hello, my name is Daniel Rendon and I am currently a Neuroscience major with a minor in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. I am currently on the pre-med track and my ultimate goal is to become a Pediatric Surgeon. As a member of the Hui 'O Hawai'i and Club Quadball, I am involved in several extracurricular activities on campus. Currently, I am doing research in Dr. Simeone's lab. In my free time, I enjoy playing intramural indoor and outdoor soccer, and I'm an avid fan of the Los Angeles Rams and Creighton Basketball. My hobbies include watching Netflix and Disney+, playing pickup basketball and soccer, going to the gym, cooking, studying at Hardy Coffee, and going on walks/runs. As a first-generation student, I take pride in the hard work and courage it takes to pursue something that may be unfamiliar territory. If you're an incoming freshman, I highly recommend utilizing the resources provided by SSS. They do an excellent job of providing support to students in all circumstances. I am very excited to meet the new Bluejays and I look forward to creating a welcoming environment for our future students.
Heyyyy!! My name is Emily, and I am a senior from Mililani, Hawaii. I am in the College of Arts and Sciences here at Creighton, majoring in biology. While serving as your Peer2Peer secretary, I am also a Peer2Peer mentor and a chemistry tutor for SSS! Outside of SSS, I am apart of Creighton’s Hawaii Club, Hui O Hawaii, and work as a phlebotomist at Nebraska Medicine.
When not working or studying, I like to find new places to eat in Omaha, go shopping, or just lounge around! Back home in Hawaii, I love dirt biking, dancing Hula and Tahitian, hiking, going to the beach, and getting acai bowls or coffee from local shops. I am quite involved with SSS, but I enjoy the sense of community in the SSS program. All the staff pretty much know you by your name and are always interested in what’s going on in your life. Additionally, the staff and students in SSS are always helpful and will notify you of any opportunities or events going on that could be of your interest! We also have a lot of different resources in SSS including tutoring, mental health practitioners, and much more that you can utilize! With this being my fourth and final year in the SSS program, I am excited to be on the exec team of a program that has given me so much. I am also excited to have one last mentee to hang out with and guide through the crazy college life! I’m ready for all the fun upcoming P2P events, as well as hanging outside of P2P and grabbing some Starbucks or trying some Omaha favorites! Don’t be afraid to reach out!
My name is Emily Squires and I am a rising Sophomore here at Creighton. I am a Biology and Philosophy double major who hopes to go to grad school to get my PhD in Biology. I am currently involved in undergraduate research here at Creighton and also write for the Creightonian (the school paper). I love playing the piano in my free time and take music courses here at Creighton as well. Some of my favorite hobbies include reading, taking long walks around the campus, exploring Omaha with friends, and writing. When at home, I would also add cooking and baking to that list. I am from California so getting used to the weather here was a challenge! Some talents that I have include my dedication and work ethic, as well as my ability to empathize with others and do the best to fulfill all responsibilities that I have to them. I like being part of SSS because it has given me a support system as a low income first-generation college student. Many parts of making the transition to college are quite daunting and having people around who advised and supported me through the entire process is something that I am truly grateful for. I am continuing on with this program because the community that it gave me in my first year was indispensable to my development as a person here at Creighton, and is something that I want to continue to not only engage in but be a part of building.
Hey, my name is Isaiah and I am a freshman majoring in biochemistry. I am currently in the pre-dental scholars’ program Creighton University offers, with plans to pursue a career as a general dentist. I assist Dr. Oshin in his research throughout the year pertaining to catalysts in the chemistry field. Furthermore, I participate in a myriad of clubs such as the pre-dental society club, chess club, and boxing club. Some of my hobbies include hiking, playing Mario Kart intensely, listening to music, playing basketball, and working out. As a first-generation student, SSS has guided me through my academic journey which has been extremely beneficial. They have provided assistance through tutoring sessions and advising while also supporting me through all my endeavors. I am looking forward to meeting all of the incoming mentees!
Hello! My name is Jayce, I’m a rising junior in the College of Arts and Sciences. I am serving on your P2P Advisory Board. I am majoring in Biomedical Physics with a Music and Medical Anthropology Minor and a Concentration in Research and Scholarship. I am from Knoxville, Iowa. I am a part of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Peer2Peer, a Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Ambassador, and a member of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine.
When I am not studying, I am typically hanging out with friends, working out, or watching Netflix with my puppies. I enjoy being a part of Student Support Services because of the many resources available and the coaching staff. Being a first-generation student at a school like Creighton can be hard, but with the guidance of the coaches and resources like tutoring available, it is easily achievable. I am excited to get to know all the new members and hang out with you all through the event our team is organizing. I am also looking forward to giving any advice I have from experience whether that be about classes or just being in a new environment. I would love to hang out, get some coffee, or just text. Feel free to reach out!
Hi guys! My name is Jireth, I’m a rising junior in the college of Arts and Sciences. I am double majoring in Health Administration and Policy & Spanish and Hispanic Studies. I am from Aurora, Colorado. I am the inaugural CSU Wellness Coordinator, and I am a part of Creighton’s Program Board as the Creighton In Common Coordinator, Creighton Global Scholars, Cortina Community, Kappa Kappa Gamma, the 402 Program with the SCSJ, Inclusive Excellence Council, Committee on the Status of Women, Active minds, and I’m a team leader in the the Schlegel Center for Service and Justice! When I’m not studying, I am usually hanging out with my friends, listening to music (Love Bad bunny or Drake), or binge watching shows on Hulu or Netflix. I enjoy being a part of Student Support Services because there are so many resources that we have access to and everyone in SSS is always there to help and cheer you on! As a first-generation college student, I know how hard it is to navigate an unfamiliar environment without being able to turn to your primary support system. I hope to be my mentees biggest cheerleader and offer any support and advice that I can. I’m so excited to get to know everyone and please don’t hesitate to say hi if you see me on campus!!
Hi! My name is Kandi, I’m a rising senior in the college of Arts and Sciences. I am serving as your Peer2Peer President! I am studying Social Work and Medical Anthropology with a Public Health minor. I am from Ewa Beach, Hawaii. I am a part of Creighton’s Hawaii Club, Hui ’o Hawaii. This past year I was able to serve as one of the Entertainment Chairs and choreograph dances for our annual Lū’au. I am also a member of the sorority Tri Delta, and service fraternity here, Alpha Phi Omega. I am also one of the Residential Advisors in Deglman Hall!
If I am not studying, I am typically watching Netflix/Disney+, dancing Hula and Tahitian, and hanging out with my Creighton Ohana (family). I enjoy being a part of Student Support Services because there are so many resources that we have access to. SSS offers additional tutoring services that I utilized as much as I could throughout my first year. SSS also has many services that help with navigating adjusting to college life. As a first-generation college student, I know first-hand what it is like to adapt to college life and not have someone to give insight on it. It can be a bit difficult trying to get used to a new lifestyle, but SSS is a place you can always go to when feeling overwhelmed. All of the SSS students and staff will make it a known fact that they are rooting and cheering for you! I am excited about building new connections and strong foundations for an uplifting school year. I am also excited for the many fun events that P2P has in store! I would love to get Starbucks with you or just take a stroll around campus with you! Feel free to reach out :)
Hey everyone! My name is Katelyn Sawyer-Lemme, and I am a rising junior studying Medical Anthropology on the Pre-PA track. After my undergraduate years at Creighton, I plan to take a gap year to gain patient contact experience and then further my education in PA school in hopes of becoming a pediatric physician assistant. On campus I am involved in organizations such as Gamma Phi Beta, MEDLIFE, and the SCSJ 402 program at Jackson Elementary School. In my free time I love to try new coffee shops and restaurants, hike, fish, kayak, and do pretty much anything that involves being outside. I also have my own photography business and I love to capture portraits of graduates, couples, and families. I joined SSS as a sophomore and it has helped me tremendously with adjusting to college. I am from Seward, Alaska and coming so far from home presented me with struggles that I had never faced before moving to college. SSS has helped me navigate these challenges in healthy ways and has provided me with education about finances, graduate school, and career options. I have felt incredibly supported by the staff of SSS since I have joined. They are with you every step of your college career. I am so excited to become a mentor for an incoming freshman student as they adjust to the new experiences that college life here at Creighton presents. I look forward to building a relationship through fun events and experiences in Omaha and around campus. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Aloha! My name is Keaomālamalama, but most prefer to call me Keao. I am a student of Creighon Univeristy’s College of Arts and Sciences, pursuing a major in Biochemistry on the pre-dental track. With intentions to return to Hawaii, I hope to serve my local community through dental care and reciprocate the aloha it has shown me all my life. In addition to the Student Support Services, I am also involved in Hui ʻO Hawaii, Alpha Phi Omega, chemistry research, as well as residential life in the first-year community. When my head isn’t buried in my studies, I find joy in spending time with friends and family, writing poetry, watching the sun rise and set, dancing hula, and listening to a wide variety of music. Being a part of the Student Support Services family has shown me the existence of the aloha spirit beyond the shores of my home. The uplifting and compassionate environment that this program creates for all its members is an aspect among many that I enjoy. Being a low-income student has framed many experiences that shape the young woman I’ve become. With this circumstance of my life, I’ve developed a strong work ethic, a perspective guided by gratitude and empathy, and a desire to serve the people and environment around me. As a mentor, I am most excited for fostering positive relationships between our mentors and mentees. Furthermore, I hope that these new connections within the Student Support Services will continue to provide strong branches of support as we all continue to navigate our journeys at Creighton University.
Hello! I’m Kristi Hirayama! I’m a rising sophomore and am planning to major in Health Administration and Policy and Psychology. I am originally from Honolulu, Hawai’i and have a fundraising chair role in the Hui ‘O Hawai’i club here at Creighton. As for other extracurriculars, I am active in the TRiO Peer2Peer program, Alpha Phi Omega, and work frequently at Starbucks.
I LOVE to travel all over the world and exploring new places/trying new foods. But I also enjoy just spending time with other people, whether it’s going to the beach, going out to eat, or studying together in the Skutt Student center.
After just completing my freshmen year, I understand how overwhelming and scary college can be. I experience some unexpected doubts and hardship in a variety of ways this past year, and so I can lend an ear and give first-hand advice to help you survive the next four years here. I am so excited to make more friends this year, so don’t hesitate to me anytime.
If you ever need anything email me at ksh75013@creighton.edu or lets be friends on Instagram @kristihirayama.
My name is Eliza Klein (Liza for short). I am currently in my first year of the Occupational therapy doctoral program. When I receive my doctorate, I hope to work with children. I truly have a passion that has only grown stronger with time for children. I am currently involved in sign language club and pre-OT club. Some hobbies I have are exploring Omaha and being outside (not into hiking or camping but like just sitting outside while doing homework and enjoying the sun), doing makeup and skin care, drawing, and cooking. I don’t like to say I have many talents, most people I have met say I do have a talent when working with children and working with people who are at disadvantages. I like being part of SSS because it has given me a home away from home and a support system when I truly needed it. Being a first generation and low-income student to me means that I have something to prove, and the big dreams that I have set for myself I have to work for. I think that it also means that the background you come from does not matter and does not define what you can accomplish. I am most excited to meet all the incoming freshman and show them all what SSS has to offer along with what it means to be part of the Creighton family.
Hihi! My name is Mandi Agustin and I’m from Honolulu, Hawaii. I will be a rising sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences planning to major in Biology on the Pre-Med track with a minor in Criminal Justice. Some clubs/organizations that I am a part of include: Hui O Hawaii, the Schlegel Center for Service and Justice, New Student Orientation, Gaming Club, Biology Club, and of course TrioSSS. On my free time I like to hang out with friends, bowl, play basketball, and play video games. One thing that I love about SSS is how community oriented they are, in which they connect incoming freshman to upperclassmen, making communication key and enjoyable. So excited to be a mentor this upcoming year and looking forward to what it entails!
Hello, my name is Mia and I am a rising sophomore! I am from O’fallon, Illinois, which is close to St. Louis. I am currently undecided in the College of Arts and Sciences, but I am thinking about majoring in biology or chemistry on the Pre-Med track. Right now I am involved in Tri Delta and I am the Social Committee Risk Chair for that, Pre-Med Society, and I work as a desk assistant in the TRIO SSS office. I like to also volunteer at the Sienna Francis House and hope to do it more in the upcoming school year. I like hanging out with my friends, getting coffee, and hiking. Being in SSS means a lot for many reasons. SSS provides a lot of resources and support for me as a first-gen and low-income student. The coaches truly care about me and are there to help guide us. Not only did I form connections with the coaches but I have met so many wonderful peers that I can call my friends.
Hello! My name is Veronica, and I am a Junior at the College of Arts and Sciences pursuing a degree in Social Work! I am a member of the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Fellows Program, a Work Study assistant for the Social Work department ( Check out my bulletin boards on the 4th floor of Creighton Hall! ), and a Residential Advisor for Residential Life. I am also on the Executive Board of the Student Organization of Social Workers and the Freshman Leadership Program.
Some of my hobbies include yoga, thrifting, watching forensic documentaries, and as a girl from Chicago, I love walking ANYWHERE! I also like trying new foods and a fun fact about me is that my Starbucks order has never been the same as I’m constantly trying new drinks! Over the summer I started learning Japanese and crocheting!! Student Support Services assist me as a first-generation and low-income student in every way possible. The workshops provided cover a range of topics from academics to financials to personal well-being. As a mentor, I’m excited to see the events and connections this upcoming year will bring!
Hi my name is Zoey Lundin. I am from Cheyenne Wyoming, I am a rising sophomore in the school of nursing. My dream is to work as a nurse while I obtain my doctorate as an obstetrician gynecologist but we’ll see what the future holds! I am involved in a couple things on campus: I am on the nursing senate, I will be a welcome week leader/guide, and student support services as a peer2peer mentor! Some of my hobbies include; sewing, people watching, being outdoors, and hanging out with my friends. I enjoy being a part of SSS because it has showed me new friends, there are so many resources to access, and we have phenomenal advisors that help us with everything and anything. As a first generation student I was very nervous to come to college and so were my parents but SSS aided in the transition because they allowed us to already have a helping hand and meet new people within the first couple weeks. I am so excited to meet new people and make new friends!! I love talking with people so if you ever need anyone to talk to I will happily help with anything! <3