To request placement with an ABLE Peer Mentor, you must be a student who has been found eligible for services through Student Accessibility Services (SAS). For ongoing support, please complete the form below to help us understand your needs and goals. Completion of the form does not guarantee a placement, as there is a limited number of space available. Our ABLE Mentor team will do our best to place you with an ABLE Mentor who fits your schedule and goals!
ABLE Peer Mentor Program
What it is:
ABLE Peer Mentoring is offered to students registered with the Student Accessibility Services. ABLE Peer Mentoring is a great opportunity for students to connect with fellow students with disabilities and receive guidance while addressing access, executive functioning skills, and accommodations concerns. A mentor can walk you through the following areas of support:
- An individualized approach to improving executive functioning skills such as self-regulation, time management, inter/intrapersonal skills, etc.
- An approach to connecting with other students, staff, and faculty
- Assistant with general accommodation questions such as submitting notification letters, how to advocate for your needs and accommodations, and scheduling exams with the Exam Accommodation Center
What it is not:
This service is not meant to replace existing resources and services on campus such as:
- Student Accessibility Coordinators: For concerns relating to your accommodations, please contact the SAS at 515-294-7220 or accessibility@iastate.edu to get connected with a coordinator
- Academic Advising: For questions and concerns relating to your courses, please contact your academic advisors
- Counseling: This service will not replace an ongoing connection to a helping professional (i.e. mental health care). We encourage sharing your challenges, however we recommend connecting with resources found here - https://www.wellbeing.iastate.edu/care-resources
- Academic Skills Support: For more individualized support relating to managing your course load, how to write a speech, or understanding your course's content, connect with an Academic Success Navigator.
Who it is for:
- Students registered with the SAS who may need additional support with executive functioning needs, assistance with understanding your accommodations, guidance on navigating campus as individuals with disabilities.
Meet the Team
-
ABLE Peer Mentor Coordinator
Sydney Kelty
Sydney Kelty
ABLE Peer Mentor Coordinator
As one of ABLE Peer Mentor Program Coordinator, I play a multifaceted role in ensuring the program's success and providing meaningful support to both mentors and mentees. I am responsible for organizing and delivering comprehensive training sessions that equip our mentors with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively guide their mentees. Additionally, I assist prospective mentors through the application process, offering guidance and answering questions to ensure they feel confident and prepared to join the program. Once mentees are accepted, I work on matching them with a mentor who aligns with their needs and goals, fostering connections that promote growth, support, and success. My role is centered on building a thriving and supportive mentoring community where everyone feels empowered to achieve their potential.
-
ABLE Peer Mentor Coordinator
Katie Kanauss
Katie Kanauss
ABLE Peer Mentor Coordinator
As one of ABLE Peer Mentor Program Coordinator, I play a multifaceted role in ensuring the program's success and providing meaningful support to both mentors and mentees. I am responsible for organizing and delivering comprehensive training sessions that equip our mentors with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively guide their mentees. Additionally, I assist prospective mentors through the application process, offering guidance and answering questions to ensure they feel confident and prepared to join the program. Once mentees are accepted, I work on matching them with a mentor who aligns with their needs and goals, fostering connections that promote growth, support, and success. My role is centered on building a thriving and supportive mentoring community where everyone feels empowered to achieve their potential.
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Kendal J.
Kendal J.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification:
Major: Dietetics
Minor: Human Development and Family Studies
"One thing I am looking forward to is getting to grow personal connections with the students to help them build self-advocacy skills, confidence, and independence. This is crucial for them to grow into their potential and take action of their educational journey."
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Holland H.
Holland H.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification: Junior
Major: Horticulture (Public Horticulture)
"I look forward to helping students devise strategies to achieve their goals at Iowa State."
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Molly M.
Molly M.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification: Junior
Major: Psychology
"I'm excited to help fellow students utilize the accommodations provided by the university and support them in their academic and personal growth."
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Carolyn P.
Carolyn P.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification: Senior
Major: Human Resource
"As a mentor I am looking for an opportunity to be an advocate and provide support to my peers."
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Varunavi P.
Varunavi P.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification:
Major: Human Development & Family Studies
Minor: Double minor in Learning Technology and Event Management
"I look forward to working with students in providing guidance, support, encouragement, and resources in academics and other general campus activities."
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Val S.
Val S.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification: Junior
Major: Supply Chain Management and International Business
Minor: Marketing
"I’m looking forward to guiding first year students through new experiences and making new connections!"
-
ABLE Peer Mentor
Abby T.
Abby T.
ABLE Peer Mentor
Classification: Junior
Major: Elementary Education with an Endorsement in Special Education
"I am excited to help make college a wonderful and inspiring place where no one feels discouraged!"