3rd & Goal Foundation Peer 2 Peer Sponsor Program
Purpose
The 3rd & Goal Foundation Peer 2 Peer Sponsor Program at Ohio State is designed to help incoming student veterans and service members make a smooth transition from the military to the college environment. A peer sponsor is an experienced, energetic student veteran or service member who maintains weekly contact with new veterans on the Columbus campus via face-to-face meetings, telephone and email. Peer sponsors communicate information, encouragement and guidance to new student veterans during their first semester and are primary points of contact for asking questions about college life and veteran education benefits.
Roles
The primary roles of a 3rd & Goal Peer Sponsor are to build trust and to assist veterans and service members with overcoming transitional challenges. Throughout the relationship, peer sponsors may provide guidance and recommendations in areas of university life including, but not limited to, suggestions on getting involved with student organizations, guidance toward academic and life support resources, introduction to other students, assistance with applying for benefits, the class registration process and referrals to the VetSuccess on Campus Counselor for interventions and counseling.
Meet our 3rd & Goal Foundation Peer 2 Peer Sponsors
Morgan Buck
Academic Program: B.S. in Biochemistry
Hometown: Ashville, OH
Reason for choosing Ohio State: I have grown up a Buckeyes fan. However I never envisioned myself going here. But, everything started to work perfectly at Ohio State, and I knew it was a great fit for me. I'm so excited I chose THE Ohio State University!
Biggest Tip: Ohio State is a huge school; sometimes it can feel lonely with so many people, so get connected. Talk to the strangers next to you in class, go to the cycling class, go to the hockey game, try the new club because you never know who you will meet and what opportunities or passions you might find.
Most Influential experience: Being a member of Buckeyethon, I attended the 24 hour Dance Marathon and celebrated with kids who have battled cancer. My eyes were opened to see how many children and families are affected by cancer and other life-threatening disorders. Being able to make a difference in their lives and bring awareness has been the best experience at Ohio State.
Most Useful Resource: As a biochemistry major, classes can get tough. Sometimes I study and study and still it doesn't make much sense. Fortunately, Ohio State offers many places to get help in those extra hard classes and even has tutoring services specialized for military and veterans.
Favorite thing on campus: I really enjoy all of the sporting events at Ohio State. The atmosphere of the Buckeyes football games is unbeatable. This winter, I especially liked going to the women's basketball games. Going to different sporting events is a fun way to show our school's pride and occasionally they give out free stuff too!
Allyson Fraley
Role: Peer Sponsor
Branch: Army
Academic Program: BA in Environmental, Economic, Development, and Sustainability with a specialization in business and sustainability
Hometown: Findlay, OH
Reason for Choosing Ohio State: I grew up a Buckeye fan, and Ohio State has been my dream school for as long as I can remember. The way Ohio State accommodates military/veterans made my decision even easier.
Biggest Tip for New/Transitioning Students: Get involved on campus as much as you can! That's the best way to meet friends and make connections for the future. Don't be afraid to ask for help because we have all been in the same shoes once and the buckeye community is here to help one another.
Most Influential Experience at Ohio State: Attending football games and being proud to be a buckeye. Nothing beats being in the student section with all your friends.
Most Useful Campus Resource: Buckeye Food Alliance is a food pantry on campus that helps students reduce food insecurity. They have great food choices and accommodating hours to help in any way they can. It has helped me in many ways get through.
Favorite thing to do in Columbus: I enjoy going to all the local restaurants. I'm a total foodie.