Vols 2 Vols
Vols 2 Vols is a peer health education program that empowers students to support student well-being across campus.
All students are welcome.
Program Overview
Vols 2 Vols are students who are passionate about creating a healthier Volunteer community. Through peer-to-peer engagement, Vols 2 Vols hope to increase accountability among peers and encourage them to speak up and intervene in potentially harmful situations. Through these efforts, the Vols 2 Vols strive to become a respected resource for student health and wellness at UT.
They are trained to educate their fellow students about health and wellness through programs and wellness events that address the following focus areas:
- General Wellness (e.g., nutrition, sleep, mental health)
- 8 Dimensions of Wellness
- Interpersonal Wellness
- Sexual Health Promotion
- Alcohol and Other Drug Education
Under the guidance of the coordinator, Vols 2 Vols students help plan outreach, events, and programs surrounding a health topic. Vols 2 Vols research, plan, and implement evidence-based programs learning valuable public health principles along the way. Peers also have the opportunity to work at the CHEW front desk, assist other CHEW coordinators, and work on special projects. No matter your interests, you can find something you are passionate about in Vols 2 Vols.
Applications are reviewed early fall and early spring semester. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, have an interest in public speaking, and the ability and willingness to respectfully engage students, faculty, staff, and other university and community members. To become a certified peer health educator, applicants must complete the Certified Peer Health Educator training provided by the Center for Health Education and Wellness either in the spring or the fall following recruitment.
Apply to be a Peer Health Educator
Are you interested in health and wellness and looking for a fun way to get involved? Learn more about being a Vols 2 Vols peer health educator.
Qualifications
- Public speaking interest and ability
- Time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
- Interpersonal skills including the ability and willingness to respectfully engage students, faculty, staff, and other university community members
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Be an undergraduate first-year student, sophomore, or junior
Expectations
- Complete the Peer Health Educator Certification training
- Attend all mandatory training and meetings
- Work at least 3 hours of events besides meetings and trainings per semester
- Be committed to the program and follow through with all scheduled commitments
- Maintain confidentiality when needed
- Be receptive to new health information and resources
Time Commitment
The total time commitment will vary depending on the number of workshops and presentations requested. At a minimum, you can expect it to be 45 hours per semester (three hours a week).
As a Peer Health Educator, you will:
- Receive training on a wide range of health topics
- Serve as an extension of the Center for Health Education and Wellness
- Improve your leadership and communication skills
- Gain experience in program planning and presenting
- Make an impact on the health and wellness of the UT campus community
- Interact and collaborate with UT departments and student organizations
- Enhance your resume
- Make great friends!
Vols 2 Vols Wellness Coaching
Vols 2 Vols Wellness Coaching offers peer-to-peer support that helps students set wellness goals and connect with campus resources.
What Are Alumni Saying about Vols 2 Vols
“Thank you for making my time at UT memorable. Your office has done more for me than any other I have been a part of. Decades from now, being a peer health educator will be something I strongly remember about college.”
“I feel like I have a huge attachment to Vols 2 Vols and I love out mission, our office, and our members so much. It is so hard to leave but my last year was everything I wanted it to be and more…I truly believe that what we do on campus can change the culture here.”
For questions about Vols 2 Vols, collaborating with Vols 2 Vols, or if you need assistance planning a program or event, please contact us at [email protected].