High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2025

Peer Mentoring Service Learning at The L.E.A.D. Scholars Academy

Peer Mentoring Service Learning at The L.E.A.D. Scholars Academy

Streaming Media

Course Code

LDR

Course Number

3215

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Mark Allan Poisel

Faculty/Instructor Email

mark.poisel@ucf.edu

About the Author

My name is Estefanie Parra and I am currently studying molecular and cellular biology with the hopes of applying to medical school next spring. I was born in Venezuela, raised in Panamá, and living in the United States. Moving around has allowed me to emerge myself in different cultures and taught me to learn something new about each person I encounter. I have done so at my current job as a medical assistant at an ENT practice where I get to provide specialized care to my patients and learn wonderful things about them. On my free time I enjoy running outdoors, volunteering at the HOPE chest store and singing with UCF’s community choir. I want to acknowledge and thank my co-mentors Coursen Greene and Diana Louis for being so supportive during our mentoring journey. I would also like to give a big thanks to Dr. Poisel for being our guiding light in the process.

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

As a second-year LEAD Scholar, I’m excited to share my experience as a Peer Mentor for first-year scholars enrolled in LDR 2001. In my presentation, I share my personal definition of peer mentor, reflecting on the personal growth and lessons I have learned throughout my semester as a Peer Mentor. I will also explore the role of service learning through peer mentoring within the L.E.A.D. Scholars Academy, highlighting how mentoring not only supports the academic and personal growth of first-year students but also develops leadership skills. Overall, this has been an incredibly rewarding journey that has deeply impacted me.

Additional Resources

Komives, S. R., Lucas, N., & McMahon, T. R. (2013). Exploring leadership : For college students who want to make a difference. John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.

Keywords

HIP Service Learning LEAD Scholars

Peer Mentoring Service Learning at The L.E.A.D. Scholars Academy


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