70 students train to become Peer Leaders for 2015-2016

The transition from high school to university can be challenging, but the Peer Leaders at AUS make it an easier process for new students.

In preparation for the Fall Semester 2015 Orientation, 70 returning AUS students attended the Peer Leaders Program's training workshop on August 27, organized by the AUS Student Leadership Program.

The Peer Leaders Program is based on the core principle that peers strongly influence the development of attitude and behaviors of one another. The main role of the Peer Leaders is to ease the transition of new students from high school to university life by being their role models, guides, mentors and friends. During orientation, each Peer Leader adopts two to five new students and aims to help them easily adapt to university life. In addition to benefiting freshmen, the program helps the Peer Leaders enhance their leadership and interpersonal skills.

"My experience as a peer leader was exhilarating. I learned to take action when I see others lost or confused, and it motivated me to continue pursuing this, not only in an event such as orientation. By helping others, it brings up a feeling like no other, a feeling of immense joy and worthiness, which is what peer leading is all about," said Ayatollah Yehia, junior student majoring in civil engineering.

"I have learned that we must put ourselves in other's shoes in order to help them. Peer leading is a great experience because you get to deal with so many people; it helps you expand your horizons. Overall, being a Peer Leader makes me feel proud to represent myself as a hardworking, dedicated and helpful AUS student to the new freshmen and their parents," said Dima Khalayli, sophomore student majoring in multimedia design.

"The Peer Leaders Program is one of our most popular programs. We are pleased to see students enthusiastic about helping freshmen transition into university life. Let me take this opportunity to thank the Peer Leaders and Team Leaders for their hard work and dedication," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students.