In high school, Izabella Silver, or Izzy, was a shy student who preferred drawing quietly at her desk. Social interactions often made her uncomfortable, and the thought of standing in front of a classroom seemed impossible. However, driven by her aspiration to become a teacher, Izzy realized that stepping outside her comfort zone was crucial. With determination, she sought the support of the College of Education's peer mentor program as a catalyst for her personal growth and professional development.

Like many first-year students, Izzy arrived at college expecting late-night studying sessions and frequent tests. She was also moving from California, so she was nervous, to say the least. Nonetheless, this shy wallflower was determined to break out of her comfort zone. Aware of Nevada's low education ranking, she pursued her studies in education at UNLV, knowing that she could help improve the system.

Stepping beyond her comfort zone, Izzy knew she needed help. So she contacted the College of Education's peer mentor program, PALS. PALS supports first and second-year students in their transition to college life. By connecting first-year students with current College of Education students, the program offers invaluable academic and social support, along with continuous guidance on how to thrive at UNLV. As an out-of-state freshman aspiring to become a teacher, PALS gave Izzy an extra push and enhanced her confidence. 

PALS support exceeded her expectations, helping her secure scholarship-supported housing, gain hands-on teaching experience, foster meaningful relationships, and, above all, develop a genuine sense of self. 

Transition and Self-Discovery at UNLV

"It's kind of like my entire life stemmed from a Zoom call in 2021," Izzy expressed as she reflected on when she was asked if she'd like to join PALS. During that call, Izzy was introduced to April Zangari, a first-year academic advisor and her former peer mentor. One of Izzy's concerns about attending UNLV was housing, so she turned to April, who provided valuable help finding accommodation.

Thanks to April's guidance, Izzy secured her space on a scholarship for three consecutive years in the residence halls. With the approval for the upcoming year, she has received an additional scholarship that covers the cost of moving into The Degree, an off-campus apartment.

For Izzy, the PALS program paved the way for significant self-discovery. Embracing her role as a mentor, she relishes the opportunity to form meaningful connections with her mentees while also gaining hands-on teaching experience, such as teaching students in the Saturday STEM Program at UNLV.

Many university students worry that the major they choose may not align with a career they love. Izzy was no different. "I was so nervous about going through four or five years of school to become a teacher. What if I hated it?" For her, becoming a mentor cemented her decision that teaching was her calling, and it still fuels her academic and personal motivation. 

Embracing Mentorship

The tables turned for Izzy in her second year, where she transformed from mentee to mentor. With seven first-year mentees under her wing, she held monthly meet-ups to assess their progress. While some attrition is normal in the program, Izzy managed to retain all seven mentees through their first year. She credits her creative touches to their meetings, including origami, coloring books, and tours of a campus art museum. While her mentees enjoyed a great experience, she was equally transformed by her mentor journey. She began to see mentees as individuals with unique needs and aspirations – a perspective she will carry throughout her career in the classroom. Rather than being a top-down advice-fest, her mentorship sessions became safe spaces where two friends were having an equal exchange. It changed everything.

One of Izzy's mentees, Alana Poole, reflected on the challenges she faced during the program, which included experiencing various losses. Her local high school friend group relocated, and later, her entire family moved away from Southern Nevada. Alana confided in Izzy, sharing her struggles and fears. To Alana's surprise and relief, Izzy consistently supported her by attending events together, even when she felt she had no one to rely on.

"Izzy inspired me so much because of how much she will do for you and anyone around her. It's so amazing to watch and makes me want to do the same," says Poole.

Peer Mentor Engagement Award

In May, Izzy was among the 2023 UNLV Peer Mentor Program Awards winners, where she received the Peer Mentor Engagement Award.

"Izzy won this award because of her consistent dedication to the PALS program and peer mentoring as a campus-wide initiative. Izzy has a smile on her face everywhere she goes, and she is always the first to raise her hand and volunteer," explains Zangari. "When a staff or faculty member approaches me in the college regarding student representation, I know I can go to Izzy with confidence that she'll represent us positively and proudly." 

Advice for Prospective Peer Mentors

When asked to share some advice for students who are interested in joining a peer mentor program, Izzy has this to share: "You have no idea how many opportunities there are until you go and see for yourself. Get out of your comfort zone. As soon as I did, I found myself, and the worst thing that can happen is you realize you don't like something, which is also really important."

by Arianna Elias