Peer Navigator - Project ReboundAt — CSUF - Project Rebound

Project Rebound is a student support program designed to assist formerly incarcerated individuals seeking to enroll at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF).The Project Rebound staff is looking for students who are dependable and patient with other people. Students will be working both directly and indirectly with formerly incarcerated people, so all students who work with us cannot have any ill feelings towards people who come from either prison or the county jail. The interns are expected to maintain a routine work ethnic for the whole semester. There is no room to jump around because people are going to depend on you for different things.

Tasks:

Under the supervision of the program director the intern will conduct the following:

Serve as point of contact for incoming PR students.

Provide mentoring with Rebound students during non-class hours by doing the following activities:                                                                           

• Assist Rebound students with campus and student portal navigation.               
• Prepare and submit Mentee progress notes
• The intern will participate in weekly team meetings and collaborations with other interns and staff and receive feedback on their participation.
• Attend workshops and training sessions for professional development.
• Facilitate a 1 hour peer-support meeting.
• Participate in mentoring and coaching sessions with the supervisor, and demonstrating progress in areas identified for improvement.

Training:

1. Observation and Feedback: Supervisor will observe the intern in a professional capacity and provide feedback on their performance, including strategies for improvement.
2. Professional Development Workshops: Supervisor will provide opportunities for the intern to attend workshops and training on relevant topics such as building rapport, documenting progress notes, and group supervision.
3. Mentoring and Coaching: The supervisor will provide guidance and support to the intern as they navigate the challenges of working with students, and will work with them to develop individualized plans for improvement.

Learning Outcome:

Understand the role and responsibilities of a Peer Navigator, including how to provide support and guidance to individuals impacted by the criminal justice system.
Develop effective communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and the ability to provide clear and accurate information.
Develop an understanding of the different challenges formerly incarcerated students face navigating higher education.
Understand and be able to navigate the cultural, social and emotional needs of system impacted individuals, and be able to provide support and guidance accordingly.
Develop the ability to work collaboratively with students and staff to provide comprehensive support to individuals.
Understand and be able to navigate the CSUF campus and campus resources