About Us

The MSCC Annual Training brings together peer mentors from across all programs for a shared day of preparation, learning and connection. Mentors participate in team-building activities, interactive breakout sessions and reflective exercises centered on topics such as leadership development, cultural competency, mentoring strategies and student support. Each participant engages in at least three skill-building workshops during the event. The training also introduces key frameworks like CRLA certification and digital badging.

Through this experience, mentors strengthen their ability to support academic planning, study strategies, and resource navigation —helping students stay on track to graduate. They also build leadership, communication and problem-solving skills that prepare them for internships and future career opportunities. By fostering cultural responsiveness and inclusive practices, the training empowers mentors to positively impact diverse student populations and promote student wellness, safety and success across campus. Shared meals and collective engagement further reinforce a sense of belonging, community and shared purpose. Approximately 150 peer mentors attend each year during the beginning of the academic year.

The Mid-Year Training provides peer mentors with a critical mid-year opportunity to regroup and recharge. Approximately 70 participants engage in a day of reflection, leadership development and skill-building. Workshop topics vary but consistently focus on strengthening core mentoring competencies such as time management, effective communication and cultural awareness.

The training reinforces the peer mentor’s role in promoting wellness and accessibility by helping students develop life skills such as self-advocacy and stress management. Mentors also receive timely updates from campus partners like the Bursar’s Office and Cal Coast Student Financial Center — equipping them to provide accurate support and strengthen student safety during key transitions. Topics vary each year, as they are carefully selected based on the evolving needs of peer mentors and the students they serve. This training normally takes place just before the spring semester begins.

This hands-on professional development session supports mentors in articulating the valuable skills they develop through their mentoring roles — skills such as leadership, communication and problem-solving that are essential for internships and career readiness. Each session guides participants in translating their mentoring experience into compelling language for job applications, internships and graduate school. To further strengthen their professional toolkit, mentors receive personalized support in crafting or refining their résumés and leave with clear, confident strategies for showcasing their transferable skills in future opportunities.

This culminating event honors the growth, dedication and impact of peer mentors in a meaningful and intentional way. In addition to recognizing major milestones — such as earning Digital Badges and CRLA certification — the event includes structured networking, guided reflection and professional community-building activities.

Peer mentors and mentees come together to create community and celebrate the mentors’ achievements. The program highlights the academic, leadership and wellness-related support mentors have provided throughout the year — while also reinforcing their growth in transferable career skills and inclusive leadership practices. Designed to foster pride, gratitude and a sense of accomplishment, the celebration affirms peer mentors as leaders and changemakers. This celebration takes place in late April or early May.