Peer Assisted Learning Support (PALS)
What is PALS?
PALS is a Peer Support Program launching in Term 1, 2023. PALS supports first year students studying in targeted units. Each Term, different units will be added to the Program. We hope that by the end of your first year of study you will have the opportunity to engage with our PAL Mentors.
PAL Mentors are successful students, just a couple of steps ahead of you, in their studies.
Checking-in online with a PALS Mentor is a great way to see if you are on track and have an authentic conversation with a near-peer who has recently completed the unit. PAL Mentors can help you unpack assignment questions and better understand rubrics.
PALS Mentors are here to share their great ideas and top tips on how you can succeed at SCU.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Mentor-assist.jpg)
Check-Ins
Are you new to SCU and studying in these first year Units?
Mentor Check-Ins are available in the following Units
Term 1
- SOCI1001 - Introduction to Sociology
- ENGL1005 - Foundations of English and Literacy: More than Words
- SCIN1004 - Earth Systems
- WRIT1003 - Written Communication
- EDUC1003 - Education and Philosophy: Playing with Thought
- ISYS1001 - Web Development
You can take advantage of our PALS Program. Make an online booking to Check-In one-on-one with a PALS Mentor now!
Meet Your Mentors
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Ande-Cummings-800_800.jpg)
Ande - Mentors Introduction to Sociology (SOCI1001)
As a mature age student that never believed that University study would be achievable, I am now entering my last year in a Bachelor of Community Welfare. My previous experience in business and education has given me the skills to achieve the critical attributes needed to understand tasks and complete them within tight timeframes. Life and study is a juggling act that are perfected with practice and tricks.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Stella-800_800.jpg)
Stella - Mentors Introduction to Sociology (SOCI1001)
Hi! My name is Stella, and I am studying a bachelor of community welfare. I am in my final year of studies and loving it; however, it feels like yesterday when I first started at SCU. I remember feeling overwhelmed in the first year at university, so I would love to share some studying strategies and ways of navigating university I have discovered along the way.SOCIO1001 helped me develop an understanding of social behaviour and the power of it.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Ava-800_800.png)
Ava - Mentors Foundations of English and Literacy (ENGL1005)
I’ve been studying a Bachelor of Education (specialising in mathematics and investigating sciences) for the past couple of years. I have developed many study strategies and exam techniques that I’m excited to share. Coming straight into university from high school was a massive leap for me, and I’m eager to help others make that transition successfully!
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Tara-800_800.jpg)
Tara - Mentors Foundations of English and Literacy (ENGL1005)
Hello, my name is Tara and I am studying a Bachelor of Education - Primary/Secondary - English. Education is something I am passionate about, so I am excited for when I can join the workforce and have the choice of primary or secondary education that I could go into. Adjusting to university can be difficult at first due to the difference to schooling. If you have come from another university to SCU, it is also an adjustment to get used to the 6x6 model. Going through these adjustments has allowed me to develop better time management strategies and different ways to help myself study effectively, and I would love to try to help you find strategies that best suit you and the way you study. The unit ENGL1005 is a great foundational unit for English and has improved my grammar and sentence structure.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Daniel-800_800.jpg)
Daniel - Mentors Earth Systems (SCIN1004)
Hi, I’m Daniel and excited to be a PAL mentor for SCIN1004. I am studying a Bachelor of Science, specialising in Earth & Environmental Systems, and have been involved in various projects and research initiatives while at SCU. As a PAL mentor, I hope to share my knowledge and experience with my mentees to help them achieve their goals.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Lochie.jpg)
Lochie - Mentors Earth Systems (SCIN1004)
Hey, my name is Lochie. I am in my third year at Southern Cross University, studying for a bachelor of science specialising in forest systems. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors doing things such as camping, fishing, hiking, and scuba diving. I am currently employed as a scholarship forester and look forward to working as a PAL mentor.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Yasmeen-800_800.jpg)
Yasmeen - Mentors Earth Systems (SCIN1004)
Hi, I’m Yasmeen and I’m studying a Bachelor of Science specialising in Environmental & Marine Systems. University life can be challenging, and I love helping other students to adjust and succeed. I’m here to share study tips & strategies as well help out with navigating and accessing SCU’s support services. I’m available Wednesdays from 12-1pm and Thursdays 9-10am (AEST). Look forward to hearing from you!
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Zoie-800_800.jpg)
Zoie - Mentors Earth Systems (SCIN1004)
My name is Zoie, and I am studying my Bachelor of Engineering Systems, specialising in Coastal systems. My passions lie in environmental rehabilitation and conservation, I enjoy learning about the interconnections of our environment, and I would love to inspire others to feel the same way. I am navigating through my third year of university and can empathise with other students from a student perspective. I am approachable and would love to guide and support other students with study tactics, ways to simplify their concerns and offer advice on where to reach out for further help, if needed.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Georgie-800_800.jpg)
Georgie - Mentors Written Communication (WRIT1003)
My first experience with tertiary study was a Bachelor of Zoology in 2013, graduating with a Diploma of Science in 2015. In 2022 I decided to return to University to study something that truly inspires me. I am undertaking a 3007099 Bachelor of Arts at Southern Cross University and majoring in Creative Writing CWR21. Written Communication WRIT1003 is a unit that I am passionate about. I believe the critical thinking skills taught in this unit are incredibly beneficial to all students. As a Peer Assisted Learning Mentor, I would like to pass on the pro tips and pitfalls I have learnt during my studies. PAL mentors can even act as a peer to vent about study stress and help get you back on track with your unit studies.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Tilia-800_800.jpg)
Tilia - Mentors Written Communication (WRIT1003)
Studying for a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Indigenous Knowledge Studies and Cultural Studies has come with many challenges. However, studying Written Communication in the first term of my degree catalysed my ability to engage with various texts critically. It provided me with knowledge and techniques to aid all the following units I've undertaken within my degree. Other challenges I've worked through have been finding out how I best approach my study style, especially regarding time management and utilising available resources to assist me. Looking back at my first year of University, I think having another student to talk to who had faced and worked through the same challenges would have been useful. I feel really happy to provide some clarity, assistance and advice through my experience. I want to offer you a safe, inclusive and non-judgemental space to join!
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Rachel-800_800.jpg)
Rachel - Mentors Education and Philosophy (EDUC1003)
Studying for a Bachelor of Education (Secondary Specialisation - Modern History) at SCU has been a wonderful experience and I am absolutely loving it! However, after studying and working in law for the last 20 years I was really concerned about changing careers and stepping outside my comfort zone. But thanks to my study at SCU I have developed some really great assessment preparation and study strategies that I would love to share with you. EDUC1003 was my introduction to the world of education theory, it gave me the opportunity to delve into the unknown and introduced me to philosophies and theories that will form the basis of my teaching pedagogy.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Montana-800_800.jpg)
Montana - Mentors Education and Philosophy (EDUC1003)
I am studying a Bachelor of Education in primary and secondary teaching, so helping people learn is a strong passion of mine! My first year of University was scary and stressful as I learnt how to write essays, reference, study, and research in the correct way. I now have some great tips and tools I can’t wait to share with others, hopefully making the EDUC1003 unit a little easier.
/prod01/channel_1/media/scueduau/learning-zone/images/Monico-800_800.jpg)
Monico Mentors Web Development (ISYS1001)
Studying for a Bachelor of Information Technology has presented me with various challenges that I overcame in my first year. While studying, I found many useful techniques, strategies, and methodologies to improve my study experience and succeed in difficult modules, which I hope can help new students too.
Contact PALS
T: 0266269262
PALS is a Pilot Program providing support for First Year students studying in targeted units. If you are not studying in one of these units and would like some learning assistance, please contact the Student Learning Zone: learningzone@scu.edu.au
First Year Students who make a booking with a PALS Mentor are advised that PALS Mentors can help you learn how to study. PALS Mentors can share their study strategies, help you unpack your assignment question and better understand the rubric. PALS Mentors cannot review or edit your work or teach unit content.