Peer Support Team

We’re so glad you’re here! The Student Coach Peer Support Team was created to provide a safe, friendly, and understanding space for students. Our goal is simple: to walk alongside you, listen, and support you through the ups and downs of student life. As fellow students, we understand what it’s like to juggle classes, personal challenges, relationships, and everything in between. Sometimes, all you need is someone who gets it, a peer who listens without judgment and reminds you that you’re not alone. That’s where we come in.

What You Can Expect from Us

• A listening ear – We’re here to hear you, without rushing to fix or judge.

• Understanding & encouragement – We can share tools, resources, and perspectives that helped us, while respecting your unique journey.

• Safe space – Conversations stay confidential, with the exception of situations where your safety or others’ safety may be at risk (in those cases, we connect with our supervisor for support).

• Respect & empathy – Everyone’s story matters. We meet you where you are, with kindness and openness.

How Peer Support is Different from Therapy

We want to be clear about what we can and cannot do.

Peer Support

• Based on shared experience and empathy.

• Focused on listening, encouragement, and helping you feel supported.

• More informal and centered on day-to-day challenges of student life.

Licensed Therapy

• Provided by trained mental health professionals.

• Involves specialized techniques, treatment plans, and clinical expertise.

• Helpful for deeper, ongoing mental health concerns.

Think of us as the bridge: we’re here to support and walk with you, and if you need more, we’ll help connect you with the right resources.

Our Commitment

We’re not here to have all the answers. We’re here to listen, to understand, and to remind you that you don’t have to carry everything alone.

Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate student community.

Meet the Team

Johnnie Salter Jr

My name is Johnnie, I am an Undergrad Student in my first year here at MIU. I am an E-Sports Athlete, on the Mario Kart Team (Big Paw Paw) and I am an Ayurvedic Wellness Major. My life has thrown me many curve balls, some I’ve hit, some hit me! I know resilience and the importance of Mental Health first hand, and I know how to get through those “impossible” situations! I can show you how to do the same! Mental Health is not always about what you THINK about, it also includes the things that affect your thoughts as well, and that can be as simple as not having butter for your toast! I’m here when and if you need me!

Roxanne Aponte

I’m a city girl with nature in my heart and a passion for holistic health and living. In the summer of 2024 I left my native home in New York City to attend MIU. I wanted to create a peaceful space to continue my journey towards healing and eventually help others along the way.

I’ve been on a mission to find my voice through various forms of self expression that support and nourish me. In addition to studying Ayurveda, I was captivated by the arts. I’m reminded that creative expression is an essential component in improving personal wellbeing in addition to utilizing Ayurvedic principles and developing an aligned, daily routine.

I understand what it’s like to feel stuck in cycles of bad habits and believe in a holistic approach to supporting one’s mental health through nutrition, physical movement, and fun activities that engage your inner child and creativity.

I’m here to serve as a beacon of light to help guide you to the wisdom already within you and unlock your potential.

Van Ville Perez

Hi, I’m Van! I’m excited to be part of the Student Coach Peer Support Team and to walk alongside fellow students on this journey. I know how important it is to have a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported and that’s exactly what I hope to bring to our conversations.

A little about me: I'm an immigrant from the Philippines but lives in Central Coast California. I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Consciousness and Human Potential. I’m passionate about fitness, meditation, and personal growth. I’ve learned that taking care of our mind and body goes hand-in-hand, and I love helping others find balance in their own lives. I’m also someone who values deep, meaningful conversations, but I’ll always meet you where you’re at, whether you need to vent, share a laugh, or just sit in silence.

As a peer coach, I’m not here to “fix” things, but to listen with empathy, share encouragement, and remind you that you’re not alone. I believe in the power of community and small steps of growth, and I can’t wait to connect with you.

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