Peer Mentors
The First-year Peer Mentors at Pueblo Community College play an integral part in aiding the Title V OPTICA Grant in its core mission of closing equity gaps for all first-year students.
Throughout a student’s first year at PCC, these seven students provide individualized support. This looks different for every student. To list just a few of their responsibilities: They help students develop individualized study and personal-success strategies and connect with vital campus resources, educate their peers about the technology available throughout their education, and lend a supportive ear when college gets tough.
One of the driving forces that makes the members of this group so successful is their willingness to share their cultural narratives. These narratives range anywhere from bilingual, first-generation students to single mom going back to school. The peer mentors have created a space for PCC students to be themselves and feel comfortable on campus.
Val Harris
Pronouns: she/her
Major: Elementary Education
Val grew up in Pueblo, Colorado. She loves helping children learn and has worked at Soaring Eagles Center of Autism during the summer months. She plans to earn an Associates of Arts degree with an emphasis in Elementary Education.
During her free time she loves listening to music, doing makeup and watching her niece.
Val’s Advice: Believe in yourself! You can do anything you set your mind to! If you need help along the way the staff, advisors, peer mentors and students at PCC are here for you!
Eduardo (Eddie) Fontes
Pronouns: he/him
Major: Secure Software Development
Eddie is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in secure software development. Eddie is a member of the MEChA club, supports students through Peer Mentoring, and holds a position with PCC Marketing department. During his free time, he enjoys being outdoors, camping, fishing, crafting code, and playing video games.
Eddie’s Advice: College life is a whirlwind of academic, social and personal activities. Learning to strike a balance between classes, assignments, social interactions and personal well-being is crucial.
Meghan Maynes
Pronouns: she/her/ella
Major: Nursing
Meghan is a proud mother of three awesome teenagers. Her ultimate goal is to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). She proudly holds positions as the President of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Senator of MEChA, member of Presidents Leadership Program, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and HSI Taskforce.
Meghan’s Advice: Speak up, ask questions and make as many connections as you can! PCC support is real and powerful for every student that embraces those potential connections. Everyone you meet here can contribute something meaningful to your college experience.
Emilio Ortega
Pronouns: he/him
Major: History
Emilio plans to complete his associate’s degree in history and transfer to CSU-Pueblo. He has held an internship at El Pueblo Museum and is the current Vice President of MEChA. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music, watching movies and hanging out with family.
Emilio’s Advice: Communication is key. Do not be afraid to talk to your instructors and classmates. Explore all resources here on campus and use them to the fullest extent. You can better your college experience by making these connections!
Natassia Rivera
Pronouns: she/her/ella
Major: Health Information Management
Natassia graduated in May 2023 with an AAS in Health Information Technology. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Health Information Technology. Natassia enjoys helping others and being a Peer Mentor has been a very fulfilling role for her. She is the proud President of MECha.
Natassia’s Advice: There are so many resources available to each student. Take advantage of what is available, and if you are not sure, ask for help! Peer Mentors are here to help in any way possible and if we aren’t able to we will find someone that can.
Sebastian Rivera
Pronouns: he/him
Major: Criminal Justice
Sebastian plans to complete his Associates of General Studies with Criminal Justice and transfer to CSU-Pueblo to obtain a bachelor’s degree. He holds two positions on campus, Peer Mentor and HR Office student assistant. He is proud member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. He is eager and excited about helping students while studying and working at PCC.
Sebastian’s Advice: Never give up. You’ll encounter obstacles throughout your college journey, but don’t let that stop you from achieving your dreams. You are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Your advisors, instructors, peer mentor and students are here to help you succeed.
Zach Smailer
Pronouns: he/him
Major: Psychology
After becoming accepted to Radiological Technology program he determined that Psychology was a better major fit for him. Zach’s career goal is to become a culinary therapist and advance into new ideas of therapy to better change the world. Zach enjoys all forms of art, learning and exercise.
Zach’s Advice: Get out there and try new things! There are so many cool clubs and resources the school has to offer that many students don’t use. We have a gym to exercise with updated equipment available to students so take advantage of resources and get involved!