Promise Peer Leaders play a pivotal role in acclimating a small group of incoming Promise Scholars to the USM community over the course of their foundational first year. Promise Peer Leaders meet with students one to one or in small groups and check in on goal progress, share resources and networks, help troubleshoot issues when they arise, and create a sense of belonging to the USM community. Promise Peer Leaders also assist in the planning and leading of events that support scholars’ academic, social, and community engagement.
SHE | HER | HERS
Year: Graduate Student
Degree: Masters in Social Work (MSW)
High School: Sanford HS
Hometown: Sanford, ME
Advice for first-year scholars: “Be kind to yourself! Even when it feels hard. That’s probably when you need it the most.”
SHE | HER
Year: Senior
Major: Biology
High School: Deering HS
Hometown: South Portland, ME
Advice to first-year students: “Take some time to figure out who you are, it’s easy to get lost, but hang on! It gets better over time.
HE | HIM | HIS
Year: Senior
Majors: Cybersecurity
High School: Portland HS
Hometown: Johannesburg, South Africa
Advice to first-year students: “Use your tutors! They are really helpful!”
SHE | HER | HERS
Year: Junior
Majors: Nursing
High School: Winslow HS
Hometown: Vassalboro, ME
Advice to first-year students: “Don’t feel like you need to be perfect all the time. When you need to, speak up, take a breath, or say “I need help.” You’re not alone. And don’t underestimate how far a good playlist and a walk can take you.”
SHE | HER | HERS
Year: Junior
Major: Social Work
High School: Lewiston High School
Hometown: Lewiston, ME
Advice for first-year students: “You will experience, learn, and improve as you move along, so don’t worry and try to have fun.”
HE | HIM | HIS
Year: Junior
Major: Women & Gender Studies
High School: Sanford HS
Hometown: Sanford, ME
Advice for first-year students: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help! We’re all young adults here figuring out independence for the first time, meaning we have resources or connections for just about any struggle you’re facing. Everyone here is rooting for your success!”