Halstead grad selected as mentor student at KU

The University of Kansas’ Learning Communities program has selected 25 peer educators for fall 2008, including Melissa Morris of Burrton.

Peer educators serve as academic mentors and advisers to KU students enrolled in Learning Communities. They also help first-year students transition to college life and assist upper-level students in exploring majors and professions.

Each Learning Communities group typically consists of about 20 students enrolled in two courses and a seminar that focus on a particular theme. Each group has a faculty facilitator and peer educator. The peer educator facilitates academic connections among the linked courses and organizes study groups and programming.

Morris, a graduate of Halstead High School, is a sophomore in communication studies.

Students enroll in specific learning communities based on their majors, courses taken or experiences related to the overall theme. For fall, about 20 are available. Courses can be used to fulfill requirements in most colleges and professional schools at KU.

Of the 25 peer educators hired for 2008-09, two are returning from last year: Lauren Fitzpatrick, Leawood junior, and Clarissa Unger, Colby senior. Unger also was a peer educator in 2006.

The Learning Communities program began in fall 2003 and is part of the Academic Achievement and Access Center within Student Success. Gail James is director of the program, and Linda Dixon is associate director.

Morris is the daughter of Timothy and Brenda Morris.