You'll often see PALs hosting monthly programs within their assigned Commons centered around degree planner, enrollment, or campus resources.
All PALs are Certified Peer Educators (CPE) through the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators or NASPA.
Get to know your PALs below.
"I am excited to return as a Peer Academic Leader in the Spring of '25 after studying abroad in the Fall of '24. I look forward to developing and executing more workshops and panels. I am also excited to get to know people in my associated commons and host fun, engaging events."
"I am real excited about helping out incoming students figuring out their place on campus and all of what SMU has to offer to them."
"I’m excited to give back to a community that’s had such a positive impact on my life. This role gives me the opportunity to connect with students I might not have met otherwise and support them on their academic and professional journeys. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned and help make their experience just as rewarding!"
"As a passionate and enthusiastic member of the Southern Methodist University community, I am excited to assist students in overcoming academic challenges and reaching their full potential. SMU has provided me with an encouraging atmosphere where I can thrive when it comes to my academics, and I cannot wait to contribute to this. I look forward to connecting with new people and providing positivity to the SMU campus."
"I'm excited to support my peers as they navigate their academic journey at SMU, where I've had so many fun and enriching experiences. With my knowledge as a senior, I hope to guide students toward great opportunities and success!"
"I am excited to serve the SMU student population and foster a more comfortable environment to discuss personal and academic goals and achievements. I want to inspire other students with my work as a Peer Academic Leader to be confident in managing the present and taking control of their futures. SMU has many opportunities and resources to offer, and it is a great place to collaborate and network with influential people while promoting essential skills such as leadership and effective communication."
"As a Senior Peer Academic Leader, I am grateful for the opportunity to support my peers in their undergraduate pathway even when they are vulnerable, fostering a community on campus. I find it rewarding to help others with the questions I once had and to allow them to seek their maximum potential! SMU is unique because its diversity and commitment to academic exploration/excellence provide students with endless opportunities to develop into future world changers."
"What excites me most about being a Pathways to Business and Industry (PBI) Peer Academic Leader is the opportunity to help students navigate their academic journeys and connect their passions to real-world opportunities. I love being able to foster a sense of community and growth, empowering students to explore careers and build skills for their future. SMU's blend of academic rigor and a supportive environment makes it an ideal place to help students and provide access to invaluable networks and personalized guidance that's essential for success in business and industry."
"What excites me most about being a Peer Academic Leader is the opportunity to guide freshmen and sophomores as they navigate the early stages of their college experience. I’m passionate about helping them connect to our commons community and providing the resources and support they need to thrive both personally and academically. Having lived in Kathy Crow during my freshman and sophomore years, I’m thrilled to give back and help foster the same sense of belonging and growth that was so essential for me!"
"What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to empower and support fellow students in their academic journeys, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Being part of the Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) program allows me to make a tangible impact on my peers' success and growth, which is incredibly fulfilling. SMU's unique emphasis on leadership development and hands-on learning experiences provides a dynamic environment where I can continuously grow and innovate, making it a truly special place to be involved in academics."
"I am excited to help students navigate their academic success and empower them to take control of their futures. I especially hope to impact more reserved students, encouraging them to branch out and reach their fullest potential. SMU's commitment to offering a community catered to each student's academic and personal well-being helps my role as a Peer Academic Leader truly make a difference as I guide students in pursuing their goals."
"I am extremely excited to help both new and returning students navigate academic and campus involvement. This role gives me the opportunity to create long lasting connections with students I may have never met otherwise. With the vast amount of resources SMU provides, I look forward to helping everyone find their fit."