UIP: Belk College Peer Guide Program

The Internship
Belk College of Business Peer Guides support the Professional Development Team in serving the undergraduate business student population. Peer Guides assist with opt-in events, admission events, and connecting students to career resources. Our Peer Guides organize and excute their own professional development event called 'Peer Talks' on various professional topics (Linkedin, resumes, interviewing, applying for internships, etc). Peer guide do in-class presentation called 'Peer Connections for Success' presentation on professional development topics. They do real time, in person promotion of events all of our professional development event within Niblock. Our peer guides serves a mentors by using the Mentor Collective platform to engage with mentees. They demonstrate commitment to leadership and professional development and generate creative ideas to increase student participation in opt-in opportunities. Peer Guide assist us with events, including but possibly not limited to, Niblock Student Center events, external events in which the Belk College is involved, and Dean's events and Participate in admissions and recruiting events for future and incoming BCOB students.

Learning Experience
Students who participate in the Peer Guide position will gain hands-on, applied experience that directly enhances their professional and career readiness. Through active involvement in programming, event support, student outreach, and mentorship, students will strengthen key competencies such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and professionalism. They will have opportunities to engage in public speaking, collaborate with peers and staff, and take initiative in planning and promoting events, all while learning how to effectively connect with a diverse student population. Additionally, the role provides practical experience in problem-solving, time management, and project coordination, allowing students to build confidence and transferable skills that are highly valued by employers. Overall, this experience serves as a dynamic learning environment where students can translate classroom knowledge into real-world application while developing a strong foundation for future career success.

Outcomes
The Peer Guide program generates meaningful outcomes for both participating students and the Belk College of Business as a whole. For Peer Guides, the experience provides hands-on opportunities to develop essential career competencies, including communication, leadership, teamwork, and professionalism. Through activities such as mentoring peers, facilitating events and Peer Talks, supporting admissions initiatives, and engaging in outreach efforts, students strengthen their ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with diverse groups, and take initiative in professional settings. Peer Guides also gain practical experience in event planning, problem-solving, and program facilitation, while increasing their awareness and application of inclusive practices. As a result, they build confidence, develop a stronger professional identity, and acquire transferable skills that prepare them for internships and post-graduate success. At the same time, the program has a significant impact on the Belk College of Business by expanding student engagement, strengthening recruitment efforts, and enhancing the overall student experience. Peer Guides increase participation in professional development programming by promoting events, connecting students to resources, and creating peer-led initiatives that foster a sense of belonging. Their involvement in admissions events helps create a more personalized and engaging experience for prospective students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, contributing to recruitment and yield efforts. Additionally, the program supports student retention and success by providing mentorship and building community among current students. It also strengthens the college’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by promoting inclusive programming and peer-to-peer support. Overall, the Peer Guide program extends the capacity of the Niblock Student Center, allowing for greater reach, more impactful programming, and a more connected and engaged Belk College community. On-Campus Employment (UNC Charlotte Departments Only) UNC Charlotte Career Center