Recognizing Each Other's Ability to Conquer the Hill

Kenyon's mentoring program is titled Recognizing Each Other's Ability to Conquer the Hill (R.E.A.C.H.). Consistent with best practices in the area of minority peer mentoring programs, R.E.A.C.H. recognizes the need to assist first-year and second-year minority and first generation students in adjusting academically, emotionally, and socially to Kenyon College. Difficulty in adjusting can very easily have a negative effect on a student's academic performance and social acclimation. The first semester is a critical one for students in transition. Most first-year students decide within the first six to eight weeks whether a college is a good fit for them and whether they intend to stay and complete the semester. Evidence from researchers in higher education suggests that peer support may be extremely important for the academic adjustment of college students. The R.E.A.C.H. Mentoring Program intends to provide support and stability while addressing issues facing first and second-year minority and first generation students.