Testimonials

I learned a lot about counseling methods, listening skills, self-introspection, and other Peer Tools in my first year, in my second year I was a TA and did Peer 2 activites alongside being Grover's technician and designer of the Peer Counseling website

My name is Citlali Sandoval and alumni at DR, and peer counseling is a programming I am so fortunate to have been in. In my high school years, I was still trying to figure out who I was and where my life was gonna head after high school. Peer counseling guided me into introducing new foundations of myself that I haven’t seen. I learned how that no matter where I am or who I’m with, I always have to show up for myself. Because at the end of it all, it’s YOU who wants to make a change for yourself.

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My name is Jeo , I was a peer counselor for two years and graduated class of 2016. I was introduced to the program when I was peer counseled myself sophomore year by a senior named axel who was a second year peer counselor in Mr. Mitts’ class. My life wouldn’t be the same and I wouldn’t be the same person if it weren’t for the resources peer counseling provided. Not only did it help me grow as a person to better my own life and those around me but it gave me a support system in a healthy safe environment that added an extra layer of comfort on the days it would have been otherwise too hard to go through alone. I loved working with Mr.Grover his first two years of peer counseling because even early on it was clear we were building a foundation that was much needed for students to have a safe space at school to talk about what is going on in their lives and to know that they are apart of a community that all go through things as well but in peer counseling we go through things together. I went from being someone who just needed someone to talk to to being one of the first Peer Counselors certified under Mr.Grover’s teachings and went on to counsel many students as well as help out in the many programs peer counseling puts together throughout the year. Peer Counseling allows students the opportunity to build up the skills necessary to be introspective , self loving, promote growth in oneself and others, and above all else to be considerate of the people around us and what they might be going through. There is no better feeling in the world than to know I got to be apart of something that continues to change the lives of all students involved with the program for generations to come. From Jeovany R.

In Peer Counseling, I learned many different tools to not only help myself but others. Even after some years, I still remember box breathing and affirmations always. Peer Counseling taught me how to believe in myself and to give myself grace when I'm struggling. Every success, big or small, is a win. Mr Grover, as a teacher, gave me space to express myself and encouraged me throughout my peer counseling journey and life as well. I will forever be grateful for memories. From Ashley V.

Since I joined Peer counseling, it made me realize that I needed to take action if I wanted things in my life to change. So I did, Mr. Grover pushed me to become the person that I am now and I couldn’t be more grateful. Taking this class has been a privilege and a wonderful opportunity to learn skills to navigate through life and apply them to my life during difficult times. I still use these skills today. This class provides such a positive and safe space for students to be able to express their feelings with no judgment. I was fortunate enough to be able to be a part of this class. From Arianna M 2022

Peer Counseling reconstructed the way I approach conflict and problem solving. I not only use the techniques I learned, but teach them to those I care for deeply, as well. The program was a highlight of my high school experience, and the techniques I learned help both myself and my relationships with others on a frequent basis. From Jake M

I don’t think I would be as happy as I am today if I didn’t take peer counseling. Since peer counseling, I’ve learned how to better deal with anxiety, have stopped having panic attacks, and have learned to value myself more. I know how to communicate with people and how to place boundaries in order to keep my peace safe. I have healthier relationships and have learned how to deal with my problems in a more healthy manner. I’m also able to push through things and I’m overall just a happier person thanks to the things I’ve learned in peer counseling. From Leila G

Mr. Grover and the Peer Counseling program have given me the tools needed to navigate and overcome the many obstacles of life. Whether I’m dealing with personal or interpersonal problems, I always find myself turning back to what I learned in Room 17 all those years ago. The emotional intelligence and maturity I gained in my two years with the program have proven to be very valuable, and the perspective I gained from hearing other students stories have shaped who I am today. I am so thankful for my experience in Peer Counseling, and I know I will keep these lessons with me for the rest of my life. Let the light shine on!” From Jean-Michael G.