Meet Business School Peer Mentor: Gillian Kitchings

Hey! My name is Gillian Kitchings.

As a mentor, I will listen and give advice as best I can – and help smooth your transition from high school to college.

What I do for fun: Go on walks around campus, grab coffee with friends, or hang out in the garden

How I’m involved: I serve as the sophomore VP of SGA and am a member of the Student Accountant Society and Phi Beta Lambda. I also attend a nearby church and am a part of a Bible study group there.

Something unique: I love music, and I’ve played piano since second grade! I’d love to learn another instrument someday.

Right now I’m reading: Gone with the Wind

One Struggle I’ve had at College:

During my high school years, I wasn’t very involved with any clubs or anything, and I really regretted it once I graduated. So, I tried to overcome that by being involved in several clubs and activities and things here last year. However, I found that I got overwhelmed very quickly with my classes, work, club meetings, and other responsibilities, and got really burnt out. So, I did my best to finish the year strong and then thoughtfully dropped some of the clubs so that I could have more time for myself and my friends and the things that make me happy.

When you’re packing, don’t forget: A fan and a blanket! It is rarely a comfortable temperature in your room, so prepare for both hot and cold.

One piece of advice for first-year students: This is an adjustment period for you. You don’t have to know everything, and in fact you probably won’t know everything, but don’t let that overwhelm you! Learn from the people around you, get involved in things that sound interesting to you, do your best in all your classes, and make sure to take some time for yourself to explore who you are now and who you are becoming.

About Peer Mentors

For over 10 years, Peer Mentors have served within the Campbell Business School to aid in the freshmen transition, support the BADM 100 Freshman Seminar, and serve as leaders within the community. Peer Mentors play an important role in the BADM 100 course by serving as role models and mentors to new Business School students. They help new students feel comfortable in the Campbell community and provide important campus information, academic advice, encouragement, and project management. In addition to serving, this group of 15-20 Peer Mentors receives personal and professional development training throughout their tenure as mentors.