![Sample our Sports and Leisure journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5949/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Sports-Leisure.jpg"})
Abstract
Use of student paraprofessionals in many roles and programs on university campuses has increased dramatically in the past 40 years. However, one type of paraprofessional program that has been underutilized in leisure and recreation departments is peer advising. Given the emphasis on service learning and experiential education opportunities in leisure and recreation curricula, this type of program fits well within the mission and values of the field. Peer advising programs can provide both valuable learning experiences for students and substantial benefits to the department. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to describe a highly successful peer advising program at a midsized midwestern university and to place this program in the larger arena of student paraprofessional work, highlighting benefits and drawbacks to student participants, student users, and the department. The paper concludes with suggested steps for implementing a peer advising program.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
L. Allison Stringer
Allison Stringer is an Assistant Professor and Chris Kowalski is an Instructor in the School of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services at the University of Northern Iowa, 203 WRC, Cedar Falls, IA, 50614–0241.
Christopher L. Kowalski
Allison Stringer is an Assistant Professor and Chris Kowalski is an Instructor in the School of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services at the University of Northern Iowa, 203 WRC, Cedar Falls, IA, 50614–0241.