In September 2024, second-year OTD student Fatima Al-Arakbi Hernandez embarked on a transformative journey alongside four fellow Duke Health Professions Education (HPE) program students. United by a shared commitment to fostering peer well-being, they joined the Collaborative Peer Support Collective (the "Peer Collective") pilot program, funded by Duke AHEAD. With a strong foundation in active listening, group facilitation, and emotional health and safety, Fatima was well-prepared to make a meaningful impact, helping to cultivate a supportive and resilient community among her peers.
Building Community Through Peer Support
From September 2024 through April 2025, Fatima was a Peer Facilitator, co-leading monthly peer support groups for HPE students. These sessions promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, mutual support, and a robust sense of belonging. Her ability to facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and provide empathetic support was crucial to the success of these gatherings.
Beyond the peer support groups, Fatima actively engaged in monthly meetings with fellow Peer Facilitators and the program director. These sessions provided opportunities to debrief, receive additional training, and brainstorm innovative ideas for future groups. Her commitment to continuous growth and development strengthened the program and the overall experience for participants.
A Legacy of Support & Connection
What truly set Fatima apart was her dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where peers felt heard, valued, and respected. Her vibrant spirit and ability to build trust forged deep connections within the Peer Collective, ensuring each participant had a safe and encouraging space to share their experiences.
Her impact is evident in the positive feedback from students, the success of the Peer Collective, and the program's growing strength. She has provided essential support to her peers through her efforts and played a key role in the initiative's ongoing evolution and success.
We sincerely thank Fatima for her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her peers. Her leadership and empathy have left a lasting impact on our community, and we celebrate her exemplary service within the Peer Collective!
Peer Support Pilot Program for Health Professions Students
In 2024, the Office of Learning Environment and Wellbeing launched the pilot program to explore the impact of interprofessional peer support on student wellness, burnout, and connectedness in health professions education.
Led by McLean Pollock, PhD, and Jane Gagliardi, MD, MHS, this Duke AHEAD-funded initiative benefits from a diverse team of faculty experts across multiple disciplines. Contributors include Melanie Bonner, PhD, assistant dean of student services; Laura Weisberg, PhD, former associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences; MaryBeth Gallagher, OTD, assistant professor in orthopedic surgery; Annamarie Streilein, PA, assistant professor in family medicine and community health; and Jeffrey Hoder, DPT, associate professor in orthopaedic surgery. Their combined expertise strengthens the program’s foundation, fostering meaningful peer connections and promoting student wellness.
Participants engage in peer support groups and one-on-one connections, discussing topics such as goal setting, sleep hygiene, mind-body connection, and coping strategies for clinical practice.
Students interested in joining or learning more can contact jane.gagliardi@duke.edu or mclean.pollock@duke.edu for further details.