Peer Wellbeing Mentors

Course: BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
Nationality: Sri Lankan

Being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means being someone that other students can relate to and feel comfortable approaching. As a student myself, I understand that university life can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when balancing studies, work, relationships and personal life. I believe having someone who understands the student experience and can offer a friendly conversation, support or guidance can make a real difference. I’m excited to be part of a community that helps students feel supported, included and reminded that they are not alone.

Being aware of Peer Wellbeing Mentors means students know that there is an approachable and friendly source of support available to them. Sometimes students may not feel comfortable speaking to staff straight away, so having fellow students they can talk to can help make seeking support feel less intimidating. Our activities can also help students meet new people, build connections, take a break from academic pressures and feel more connected to the ARU community.

Tips

My biggest tip is to remember that looking after your wellbeing is just as important as keeping up with your studies. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself and remember that it’s okay to take breaks when you need them. Stay connected with friends and family, get involved in activities you enjoy, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when things feel difficult.

Also, remember that everyone’s university journey is different, so try not to compare yourself too much to others. Celebrate your small achievements and take things one step at a time.

One quote I really like is: “You do not have to have everything figured out to move forward.”

Course: MSc Foundations in Clinical Psychology
Nationality: Turkish

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor is about bringing a personal, human touch to university life. Often, the most valuable support isn't offering solutions, but simply being present, listening, relating to the ups and downs of student life, and gently guiding someone when they feel lost. I want to be a familiar, approachable face that students feel at ease reaching out to, whether for a deeper conversation or just a quick check-in. I also view this role as an opportunity to build connections and consistently remind my peers that taking care of your mental health is every bit as essential as staying on top of your coursework.

University can feel surprisingly lonely, even when you’re constantly around others. Having visible Peer Wellbeing Mentors provides a recognisable, friendly presence across campus, which can make that initial step towards socialising or seeking help feel far less intimidating. Our activities also offer a great excuse to step away from the daily rush, meet new faces, and uncover opportunities and resources around ARU that students might otherwise overlook.

Tips

Your studies are vital, but so are your relationships, your downtime, your sleep, and the small joys you anticipate each day. Try to carve out something in your week that isn't remotely productive. Whether it’s taking a walk, catching up with someone over coffee, joining a campus event, cooking a favourite meal, or simply granting yourself an evening of guilt-free rest and making space for it.

Never underestimate the power of genuine connection, either. You don’t need a wide circle; sometimes, just having one person you can speak openly with can completely transform your university experience.

And finally, a reminder I constantly give myself: a single hard day doesn’t have to define the rest of your week.

Course: BA (Hons) Music Production
Nationality: British

Being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means that I can help make a difference on campus. For some, university brings a wide variety of changes and challenges and can be difficult to navigate- which is why I want to be able to show my peers that they aren’t alone in this, and try to make this next step as enjoyable and exciting as possible for as many people as I can!

Being aware of what we do as wellbeing mentors is really important because we provide many resources that will heighten students’ university experience. We run weekly get togethers for students looking to meet new people and build good connections, as well as offer a wide range of support if they feel they are struggling in any area. Our team is diverse and are aware of the problems that can arise from all walks of life, and we’re here because we want to support you through them.

Tips

Find your own rhythm and do what works best for you! Looking for tips online or through friends can be great for ideas, but don’t feel pressure to do things a certain way just because others are doing it- you know yourself best!

Embrace setbacks- as a music student, some of my best work comes right after my worst pieces! It can be frustrating to feel as though you’re not where you should be, but it’s in these moments we can learn the most about how to get there.

Never be afraid to reach out. Of course, we at the wellbeing team want to support you in any way we can, and so do the people around you! We all understand the feeling of wanting to help our friends, so try to remember that those close to you feel the same way about you. Remember that its okay to struggle sometimes, but that you never have to be alone in that.

Course: BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
Nationality: British-Asian (Sri Lankan)

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means being a supportive and approachable presence for others, someone they can turn to when things feel overwhelming. I see it as offering a listening ear, understanding from a place of shared experience, and reminding people that they don’t have to go through university challenges alone. It also means encouraging my peers to recognise their strengths and take small, positive steps for their wellbeing, whether that’s through talking things through, signposting them to resources, or simply being someone who understands. I believe the role is about creating a safe and non-judgemental space where others feel heard, while also promoting balance and self-care by leading through example.

The benefits of students being aware of the Peer Wellbeing Mentors and our activities are that it helps to build a stronger sense of community and belonging on campus. Knowing that support is available from a fellow student can make it easier for someone to open up, especially if they might feel hesitant about reaching out to formal services. Our activities give students the chance to connect, share experiences, and learn practical ways of looking after their wellbeing in a supportive and non-judgemental environment. It also helps to normalise conversations around mental health and self-care, which can reduce stigma and make it easier for students to prioritise their wellbeing. Ultimately, awareness of Peer Mentors ensures that students know they’re not alone, and that there are approachable, relatable people who can guide them towards the right support and help them feel more confident in navigating university life.

Tips:

Make time for the small things that bring you joy and balance alongside your studies:

• For me, meditation is a really helpful way to pause and calm my mind, even if it’s just for a few minutes in the day. 
• Reading or painting gives a creative outlet and a break from screens, which helps mind and body to reset when feeling overwhelmed. 
• Movement whether that’s dance or going for a walk, it always lifts my mood and clears my head. 
• Don’t underestimate the power of music or a good movie to relax and recharge! 
• Overall, my advice would be to find the activities that make you feel grounded and make them part of your routine. Even small moments of joy can make a big difference to how you feel.

Course: Children’s Nursing
Nationality: British

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means offering a safe, welcoming space for students and being a friendly face they can approach and talk to without judgement. As fellow ARU students, we understand some of the challenges and pressures, as well as exciting and positive experiences, that come with student life, and can listen, offer support and signpost you to ARU services.

It is also about building community and promoting positive wellbeing amongst students through activities and campaigns. I want all students to feel supported, comfortable, and informed about the services available at ARU.

Being aware of the Peer Wellbeing Mentors and the activities we provide reminds students that there are fellow students they can turn to for a listening ear, support and guidance without judgement. Student life can be overwhelming at times, and our activities provide opportunities to take a break and connect with others.

They also provide an opportunity to learn more about the support and services available at ARU, helping students feel more informed about where they can turn to if they need additional support. Whether you're having a difficult time or simply want to meet other students and take the time to do something positive for your wellbeing, everyone is welcome.

Tips

Reach out for support and remember that you are not alone. Even when things feel overwhelming and there are deadlines to meet, try to prioritise making some time for yourself. Looking after your wellbeing doesn't have to mean doing anything complicated or time-consuming. For me, that might be getting cosy with a hot drink, journaling, or watching a film to just simply switch off. Find the things that help you recharge and make space for them, even during busy periods.

Having experienced life as a first-year student at university already I can understand and relate to how isolating and unnerving it can be. As a Peer Wellbeing Mentor, I aspire to be someone who students can turn to when they need support or even just a listening ear. I want to help promote a friendly and welcoming space where students feel comfortable talking about what’s on their mind or spending some time doing something they enjoy.

Being able to help my peers enjoy their time at university while maintaining a healthy balance between their studies and their wellbeing is something I value greatly and find very fulfilling.

The transition from college/sixth form to university can be daunting and stressful, and it's normal to face challenges along the way. Knowing there are other people going through the same difficulties can be reassuring and build a sense of community where everyone supports each other. Peer Wellbeing Mentors, and the activities we organise, help to facilitate this welcoming environment while offering students a place to connect and bond.

Ensuring students are aware of the services available to them is key to helping them settle in, feel included and get the most out of the university experience.

Tips:

• You are a priority! Yes, you’re at university to study hard and achieve, but not at the expense of your own wellbeing. Make sure to take out time to do the things that will make you feel good and naturally you will excel in your studies. Finally make sure you attend the activities organised by your wellbeing mentors!

Course: Medicine
Nationality: British

I aim to be a familiar, friendly face and somebody who students can count on for support and understanding. My goal is to create a welcoming and safe space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves. I shall provide guidance, offering encouragement, or simply being there when they need someone to talk to.

University life can be overwhelming and isolating at times. Even if students are struggling, it’s easy to feel ‘stuck’ and to be unsure of how to take action and start improving their wellbeing. Awareness of the peer wellbeing mentor team lets students know that they always have somebody to turn to if they need support, guidance, or even just a talk.

Tips: One of the most helpful things I've learned, and am still working on, is the power of slowing down. It's so easy to get caught up in the rush to finish everything on our to-do lists. But taking a moment to pause and be present makes such a difference for both our physical and emotional wellbeing. I've found that even a few minutes of mindfulness each morning helps me to feel more motivated, deepens my sense of gratitude, and allows me to act more intentionally throughout the day.

Course: MOptom Optometry
Nationality: Pakistani

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor is about being someone students can relate to on a genuine level,  another student who understands what it's actually like day to day, the pressure before deadlines, the days that feel completely fine followed by days that don't, the uncertainty of settling in and finding your feet. It means being approachable enough that someone feels comfortable saying "I'm finding this difficult" without it being treated as a big deal. University brings a lot of change and pressure all at once, and having a fellow student who can simply listen, without judgement, adds something valuable alongside all the other support that's out there. It's less about having all the answers and more about making sure people don't feel like they're facing things alone.

When students actually know we (Peer Wellbeing Mentors) exist, they're far more likely to reach out before things become overwhelming. Many students don't ask for help early on, either because they're unaware of what support is available or because they're unsure where to start. Seeing a peer mentor around campus, on social media, or at an event helps make wellbeing feel like a normal part of student life, rather than something only considered once someone is already struggling. It also means there's a familiar, relatable first point of contact people feel comfortable approaching, who can then help guide them toward further support if needed. The more visible we are, the more likely students are to actually use the support that exists, rather than dealing with things on their own.

Tips

• Reach out for help early, before things build up.
• Prioritise sleep and regular meals. They make a bigger difference than people think.
• Get outside and move, even just a short walk.
• Join a society or activity. It helps you feel less isolated.
• It's okay to have an off week; you don't have to be at your best all the time.
• Make the most of what ARU already offers e.g., Library resources, Study skills plus, Employability team, the Counselling and wellbeing service and so much more.

Course: LLB (Hons) Law
Nationality: Indian

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor is about being the person I wish I had when I first started university. Moving to a new country and starting university came with a lot of excitement, but also moments of uncertainty, loneliness and not knowing who to turn to. Sometimes, having even one person who listens without judgement can make a bigger difference than people realise.

I don't see this role as simply giving advice. I see it as creating small moments of reassurance, whether that is checking in with someone, starting a conversation, helping them find the right support, or simply reminding them that they are not alone. I want to help create a university environment where wellbeing is something students can talk about openly, without feeling embarrassed or judged.

For me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means turning my own experiences in university into something positive for someone else. If I can make even one student's university experience feel a little less overwhelming and a little more like they belong, then my role has meaning. Always with the students and for the students.

Peer Wellbeing Mentors can make support feel more approachable because we are fellow students who understand the pressures of university life.

• Find the right support and resources
• Feel less isolated
• Connect with fellow students
• Speak your mind without judgement
• Discover wellbeing activities around campus and online
• Make university life less stressful and more fun!

Tips

• You don’t need to attend everything: Protect your social battery, find people who feel like home, and remember that it’s okay to have quiet days.
• Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes: Celebrate your small wins, and give yourself permission to change your plans as you grow.
• Your worth isn’t your grades: Make memories outside your deadlines and give yourself room to figure out what you want.
• Not every bad day needs fixing: Some days are simply harder than others. Be kind to yourself and remember that you’re always allowed to start again.
• Enjoy your present, learn from your past, and prepare for your future: You don’t have to have everything figured out today.

Remember “Nothing is permanent, even the bad days too shall pass”

Course: BSc (Hons) Game Design and Development

Being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means being a point of contact to my fellow students for support and resources for taking care of our mental health, as well as someone who will listen with compassion and empathy.

Being aware of us and what we do ensures students have a link to wider resources, provided within or beyond the university, to help manage their mental health. By ensuring that, they can confidently make those steps to better days.

Tips

1. Don’t overwork yourself! Always set aside time to live your life regardless of your education or occupation.
2. Join a society, club, or community group! Whether it’s in-person or online, in or out of uni, local or global, having a community is a great way to fight loneliness. Especially with feeling anxious or depressed, attending events and engaging with others can redirect your attention away from what may being triggering your anxiety or depression (if there is a specific trigger).
3. Contact someone you trust! Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or your GP, or a self-referral to talking therapy, having a person to voice your struggles to can help regain clarity and discover unclouded perspectives.
4. If I’m struggling with anxiety, I tell myself: “You are too concerned with what was and what will be. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift.”

For me being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor is about creating a space where students feel seen and understood. University can be overwhelming, and it makes a huge difference knowing that someone genuinely understands the struggle.

I see this role as being that approachable person students can turn to for reassurance, encouragement or simply a listening ear. It’s about empowering students to find their own strength while reminding them that it's okay to lean on others when they need to.

By being visible, we can normalise conversations around wellbeing and show that looking after yourself is part of everyday student life, not just something to think about when things are going wrong. Knowing there are peer mentors around also reassures students that ARU values community and cares about more than academic success.

Tips:

• Find your rhythm, not someone else’s. It is completely okay if uni life doesn't look like the movies or how people described it to you. Uni life looks different for everyone – it's perfectly alright if your version doesn't look like the 'perfect student experience'. The only thing that matters is if it's good to you.
• Don’t underestimate the small things. The basics really matter, especially during exam seasons when you are likely to neglect your wellbeing for those long study sessions. Eating well gives your body and brain the fuel to cope with long study days – even simple meals can make a difference to energy and focus. Sleep is just as important: pulling all-nighters might feel productive in the moment, but consistent rest helps you stay sharper, calmer and more resilient. Building a routine around meals and sleep is one of the simplest ways to protect your well-being.
• Don’t leave things to the last minute. Build a routine. Spreading out your works and setting small realistic goals makes life much less stressful. While it's easy to think that I can do that later, replying on last minute pressure can quickly lead to burnout and anxiety. A steady routine gives you structure, helps you stay on top of deadlines, and still leaves room for downtime and socialising.
• Ask for support – early and often. Reaching out is not a weakness, it means you care about yourself enough to look after your needs. Whether it's checking in with friends, talking to a lecturer, or using ARU’s wellbeing services, support is there for you. Sometimes just saying out loud 'I’m finding this tough' is the first step towards things getting lighter

Course: BSc (Hons) Game Design and Development
Nationality: Sri Lankan

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means being an approachable and supportive student who helps other students feel heard, valued and connected to the university community. It is about creating a safe, inclusive and non-judgemental space where students feel comfortable talking about their experiences and are encouraged to seek support when they need it.

I believe a Peer Wellbeing Mentor is not there to solve every problem, but to listen, offer encouragement, raise awareness of the support available and help students find the right services when appropriate.

Most importantly, I would want students to feel that they are not alone and that asking for support is a positive and important step.

Having greater awareness of Peer Wellbeing Mentors and our activities can help students feel more connected, supported and confident about looking after their wellbeing. University life can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when students are adjusting to a new environment, managing academic pressures or trying to build new friendships.

Peer Mentors can provide a friendly and approachable first point of contact, helping students feel more comfortable discussing wellbeing and signposting them towards the appropriate ARU support services. Knowing that there are other students who care about their wellbeing can also reduce feelings of isolation and encourage a stronger sense of belonging.

Our activities can also help make wellbeing support more visible and accessible. Through wellbeing stands, campaigns, social activities and sharing useful information, we can encourage students to take small steps towards looking after themselves before challenges become overwhelming.

Ultimately, I believe awareness of Peer Wellbeing Mentors can help create a more supportive student community where students feel comfortable asking for help, connecting with others and prioritising their wellbeing alongside their studies.

Tips

1. Talk to someone.
   If you are struggling, you do not have to deal with everything on your own. Speak to a friend, course mate, tutor, mentor or an appropriate ARU support service. Sometimes simply talking about how you are feeling can make things feel more manageable.
2. Make time for yourself.
   ARU can become very busy, so remember to take regular breaks. Do something you enjoy, whether that is listening to music, watching a film, exercising, going for a walk or spending time with friends.
3. Stay connected.
   Building positive relationships can make a big difference to your ARU experience. Join societies, attend student activities, talk to your course mates or take part in opportunities that allow you to meet new people.
4. Look after the basics.
   Try to maintain a healthy routine by getting enough sleep, eating regularly, staying hydrated and keeping physically active. Small habits can have a positive impact on your mood, concentration and overall wellbeing.
5. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
   Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It is a positive step towards looking after yourself. Familiarise yourself with the wellbeing and support services available at ARU so you know where to go if you or someone you know needs support.
6. Be kind to yourself.
   ARU is a learning experience, and things will not always go perfectly. Try not to compare your journey with other students. Celebrate your progress, including the small achievements.
7. Remember that wellbeing looks different for everyone.
   What helps one person may not work for another. Take time to understand what makes you feel supported, motivated and comfortable, and don't be afraid to try different ways of maintaining positive wellbeing.

A quote I find meaningful:
"You don't have to have it all figured out. Take it one day at a time."

Course: BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy
Nationality: British

To me, being a Peer Wellbeing Mentor means being someone students feel comfortable approaching, whether they need someone to talk to, some encouragement or simply a friendly face around campus. Supporting positive mental wellbeing is an important part of the role, but I also see it as being about creating a welcoming community where students feel that they belong. I want to encourage students to get involved in university life, whether that is joining a society, attending an event or simply meeting new people, and help them feel comfortable making the most of their time at ARU

I think knowing who the Peer Wellbeing Mentors are makes it easier for students to know where they can turn if they need some extra support or simply someone to talk to. Having mentors who are fellow students can make wellbeing support feel more approachable and relatable. Our activities will also give students opportunities to meet people, try something new and become more involved in university life. With the introduction of the weekly Wellbeing Hangouts at Writtle, I hope we can create another opportunity for students to connect with each other and build a stronger sense of community on campus.

Tips

My biggest tip would be to make time for the things that make you happy outside of your studies. University can easily become all about assignments, deadlines and trying to keep up, so having something that gives you a break and something to look forward to can make a big difference.

For me, looking after my wellbeing means making time for the things I enjoy outside of university. I love reading, spending time with animals, scrapbooking and spending time with the people I enjoy being around. Having these things to look forward to gives me a chance to switch off from studying and focus on something that makes me happy.

I would also encourage students not to put too much pressure on themselves to have everything figured out. Everyone's university experience is different, so find what works for you and don't be afraid to try something new. Even taking a small step, such as joining a society, going to an event or talking to someone new, can make a big difference.

One quote I always come back to, and that I think is a great reminder when facing something new or challenging, is:

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity.” — Amelia Earhart

Course: BSc (Hons) Horticulture
Nationality: British

A Peer Wellbeing Mentor is someone who can relate to the students around them, perhaps more then the faculty may ordinarily be able. Promoting a healthy and enjoyable university experience for all students regardless of their needs or difficulties. A Peer Wellbeing Mentor is someone everyone should feel comfortable coming to, be it just for a chat or for more serious reasons which we will go above and beyond to help with.

What are the benefits of students being aware of the peer mentors and your activities:

It provides a place to go for those who may feel like they are struggling in the university setting or simply want something to do that evening, but we always provide that space to talk privately or otherwise and can ensure your voice is heard. Our awareness campaigns highlight known issues at all universities and help to tackle them to make our campus a safer and happier place to study.

Tips

As a gardener myself experiencing nature in a way that works for you can really help level you out and relax you in those stressful moments, and can provide good launching off points after a quick reset. University can often feel daunting and that it can overtake your life especially in the busy season so having those moments outside of it are essential.