College life can be a challenging period for many students, with various factors such as being away from home for the first time, managing work and internships, and dealing with personal issues. To address these challenges, Stony Brook University established the Student Support Services team to assist students when difficulties begin to affect their academic performance.
Patrick Toscano, a student support associate at Stony Brook University, stated that "Vice President of Student Affairs Rick Gatteau realized that we needed a dedicated non-clinical office to assist students experiencing acute crises." The team was created just before the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure students have the necessary resources to continue toward graduation.
A distinctive feature of this initiative is the Peer Support Team. This group consists of students who aim not only to provide support during difficult times but also to foster an engaged community at Stony Brook University. Toscano explained, “College isn’t just about classes — it’s about building a community of support. Being a Student Support Team Peer Intern is a unique opportunity to be creative, make change and be a mentor.”
The Peer Interns are committed to connecting with fellow students and guiding them through campus life. According to Toscano, these interns are often individuals who aspire to be leaders and innovators on campus. He noted, “They are creating a new culture on campus where everyone thrives.”
While the Student Support Services offers various services like emergency funds and basic needs support, the Peer Support Team adds another layer by allowing students to discuss their issues with peers in a comfortable setting. Toscano emphasized that if students are uncertain where to turn, "the Student Support Services Peer Support Team is here to guide them through difficult times."
Faizah Armfield-Bility, one of the peer interns, shared her experience: “I’ve loved being part of events like Glo Yoga, Healthy Tea Habits... putting a smile on someone’s face during those small interactions really makes my day.” Astrid Chong echoed this sentiment and highlighted how her involvement has provided direction for her future career aspirations in mental health.
Both Armfield-Bility and Chong acknowledged that their experiences as peer interns have equipped them with valuable skills that will benefit them beyond their university years. Armfield-Bility remarked that working in such a diverse environment taught her cultural awareness and adaptability—skills she plans to carry forward after graduation.