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What is a Peer Wellness Coach?

Peer Wellness Coaches (PWC) are upper-level undergraduate and graduate students who assist students in accomplishing their academic, social, and personal goals. Sponsored by Student Counseling Services and Student Affairs, the primary goal of the program is to provide students who are stressed, unmotivated or worried about their grades or life in general with a personal coach. The role of the PWC is to assist students in their endeavor for college success.

What does a Peer Wellness Coach Do?

Peer Wellness Coaches help Northeastern students one-on-one with coaching/mentoring, linkage to Student Counseling Services when necessary, as well as linkage to University or community resources, and peer advocacy. They also provide some outreach programming to the University community on a variety of mental health-related topics.

What kind of training do Peer Wellness Coaches receive?

Peer Wellness Coaches receive training in basic counseling and leadership skills, Mental Health First Aid, healthy relationships and consent, social justice issues, choosing a major, self-care, information on University resources, and community social service resources. Peer Wellness Coaches receive weekly supervision and seminars for ongoing training in these areas.

Peer Wellness Program Locations AND HOURS

Peer Wellness Coaches can be found on campus in convenient, private locations, including the Angelina Pedroso Center for Diversity and Intercultural Affairs, The Nest, NEIU Libraries, and Campus Recreation. Coaches can also meet for remote appointments using a secure Zoom connection.

Hours for FALL 2025

• Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Make an Appointment with a Peer Wellness Coach

Peer Wellness Coaches are available throughout the Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 semesters! You can schedule an appointment by contacting Student Counseling Services at counsect@neiu.edu or (773) 442-4650. You can also fill out the to be matched with a Peer Wellness Coach!

Meet Our Peer Wellness Coaches (2025-2026) 

Alejandro Mendez (he/him)

Hello everyone, my name is Alejandro Mendez, and I am a graduate student in the Master of Social Work program. I am a first-generation college student, a native Chicagoan, and a proud son of Mexican immigrants. I attended college in downstate Illinois and am aware of the challenges that come with the adjustment to university and campus life. Balancing academic and social commitments can be challenging and stressful, and I hope to be someone who can support students from all backgrounds. In my professional life, I have worked with youths in Chicago who experienced homelessness while attending college, and it remains one of the most rewarding work experiences. My passions include running (I have run races in Chicago, Nashville, Toronto, and Cincinnati), old school video games, reading non-fiction and fantasy, and cooking. I look forward to meeting and supporting you on your academic journey!

Bader Alwan 

Hi, my name is Bader, and I am thrilled to be joining the Peer Wellness Coaching team! I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Human Developmental Science at À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, where my work focuses on emotional intelligence, student well-being, and fostering growth through community. 

On campus, I’ve been actively involved in student leadership and engagement, serving as a student worker, student leader, event producer, and advocate for elevating student life. Through these roles, I’ve learned the importance of creating spaces where students feel supported, empowered, and connected.

As a Peer Wellness Coach, my goal is to support fellow students in navigating challenges with confidence, building self-efficacy, and finding balance in their academic and personal lives. I believe in meeting students where they are, listening with empathy, and helping them identify practical strategies for well-being.

I am excited to continue this journey of supporting our NEIU community and look forward to connecting with students, staff, and peers as we grow together.

Luzkarina (Luz) Argueta, She/Her

Hi! My name is Luz, and I’m a Mexican-Guatemalan first-generation college student majoring in Social Work. I’m really passionate about helping others feel comfortable and supported, especially as they navigate school and everyday life.

In my free time, I love skincare and makeup; they're among my favorite creative outlets. I use Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube to find new ideas and try out different looks. I also enjoy dancing and listening to music (Rock en Español and cumbias, to be exact). Dancing is something that helps me de-stress whenever I feel overwhelmed.

I was born and raised in Chicago, and I truly love this city. From the delicious food to the amazing architecture, it’s a place I never plan on leaving.

Something I value about myself is that I’m very organized, and I enjoy helping others with organization, whether at home or with schoolwork.

As a PWC, my goal is to make students at NEIU feel welcomed, accepted, and supported. I know how important it is to feel like you belong, and I want to help create that sense of community for others.

Maura Aparicio-Cabrera

Hello, my name is Maura Aparicio-Cabrera. I am a graduate student currently working on a master’s in social work. I was the first in my family to obtain a B.A., so I understand the struggles that some first-generation students face. I want to support you as you navigate some of these obstacles and work toward success in completing your goals. As first-generation students, we find ourselves having more anxiety during test times or when completing assignments. I want to help you learn coping mechanisms that can help you lower your anxiety during these times. I have many roles as a full-time employee, graduate student, peer wellness coach, and mother of two, which have taught me the importance of time management and structure. If you need help with organization or time management, I am here to help you find effective strategies. Let's not forget that a very important part of college life is being able to build a solid network with friends and future colleagues that you can utilize once you complete your degree. Sometimes being new to a school and making new friends can seem overwhelming. I look forward to supporting you as you navigate the various organizations NEIU offers.

Mikah Jorgensen She/Her

Hello, my name is Mikah Jorgensen. I am an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work. I wear many hats– first-gen student, co-worker, mother, and so much more. Balancing all of these roles can be overwhelming, which is something I know many of you can relate to. 

Through my educational journey, I've learned the importance of advocating for myself while also supporting others. Navigating college is no easy task —especially when you have to juggle so many responsibilities, but it is absolutely possible. My goal is to support you on your educational journey so you don't have to face it alone. Asking for help can be the most challenging part, but the outcome will be worth it.