Student Affairs

Health Promotion and Wellness accepting applications for peer educators

The deadline to apply is March 4

Students in HealthWorks share health information and encourage healthy behaviors by conducting one-on-one wellness services, educational workshops and outreach activities. (Photo taken prior to the COVID-19 the pandemic.) Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW), a unit of Penn State Student Affairs, is seeking applicants for HealthWorks, a peer outreach and education program designed to promote healthy behaviors among students at University Park. Applications for the 2022-23 academic year are currently being accepted through March 4.

HealthWorks allows students with an interest in health and wellness to get involved on campus and earn credits. Through the program, students have the unique opportunity to either facilitate one-on-one wellness services with peers regarding stress and time management, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, sexual health and healthy relationships; or conduct educational workshops and outreach events (e.g., Love Your Body Week), staff outreach tables, assist with healthy cooking demonstrations, write content for Healthy Penn State social media, and provide HIV test counseling. During the application process, students will be able to prioritize which opportunity they are most interested in.

Participation in the program involves a minimum three-semester commitment — one semester of training and two semesters of service — meaning students who apply must plan to graduate in December 2023 or later.

Training for the program requires completion of a three-credit course in biobehavioral health, which is offered during the fall semester. Topics covered in the course include alcohol and other drugs, sexual health, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress, and other health topics relevant to the college population. There are no prerequisites to register for the course. Upon successful completion of the training course, students complete 45 hours of service each semester.

For more information about HealthWorks or to apply, visit HPW's HealthWorks webpage. Applicants will be notified of their status by March 25.

Last Updated January 28, 2022