Peer Mentoring

photo of ten peer advisors wearing red t-shirts and smiling at the camera

The CAE Peer Mentoring Program supports the transition and retention of first-year students at UW–Madison. Upper-level undergraduates work with first-year students as they transition from high school to college by role-modeling leadership and academic and social skills. New students benefit from the experiences and campus strategies of older, more experienced, Peer Mentors. The first-year transition to college is a big step; with CAE Peer Mentors, first-year students make social and academic connections that ease the important adjustment to college life.

The application for the 2025-26 academic year will be available spring 2025. Please check back here if you are interested in applying.

Components of our Peer Mentoring Program

First-year students will:

  • Meet with their Peer Mentors during the academic year
  • Attend recommended and required programs and workshops
  • Use their Peer Mentors as resources in adjusting to UW-Madison.

Peer Mentors will:

  • Facilitate, organize, and plan programs, workshops, and co-curricular activities
  • Learn professional and leadership skills
  • Develop team work and collaborative skills.

History of the Peer Mentoring Program

Historically, the CAE Peer Mentoring Program was focused on first- and second-year students’ successful transition to college. The program was later expanded to also include activities that support the development and growth of the mentors as well.