PeerForward Alumni like Justin Ventura continue to be a positive influence on their peers throughout their postsecondary journey and beyond. This week, our Alumni Spotlight is on Justin, a student at Hunter College majoring in Media Studies. We caught up with him to ask about his experiences at college and discuss why he serves as a PeerForward Alumni:
Why do YOU serve?
Serving as a PeerForward Alumni is EVERYTHING to me! After how much help PeerForward provided me and my peers with from junior year to senior year, I couldn’t help but feel that I needed to take part and pass on the knowledge that was given to me. Everything I’ve done within the PeerForward circle has been unforgettable and I want to pass that feeling on.
What has been the best part of college so far?
So far, the best part of college for me has been the freedom that I have. I’m so happy to have this much time to myself and to be studying the thing I enjoy most. It’s exciting to know how many opportunities there are and all the different journeys I can go on.
How did PeerForward change your perspective of college?
Before PeerForward, I was beyond nervous to start college. I didn’t feel prepared for it at all, and I had no clue where to start. PeerForward provided the foundation that I, and so many others, needed to get started. It really calmed my nerves about everything.
How have you been a positive influence on your peers in college?
I’ve consistently been the person who’s at the side of anyone who needs me, even before college. Continuing to remain myself throughout college has helped me tremendously. It has also made it easier for my peers to confide in me in situations where they may need me.
What’s one piece of college advice you’d offer Peer Leaders?
Don’t second guess yourself!! It’s very easy to make a decision and think you did it too fast or feel that it isn’t for you. What I can say is stick through it, don’t think twice after you’ve already done something, and trust yourself and your intuition.
Some responses have been edited for length and clarity.
