UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Health Promotion and Wellness, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, is now accepting student educator applications for the HealthWorks peer education program which trains Penn State students to promote healthy behaviors among their peers while fostering a culture of well-being on campus.
Students who have a passion for health and wellness are encouraged to apply. HealthWorks members educate students on a variety of health topics, which may include sexual health, healthy relationships, nutrition, stress management and sleep through educational workshops, one-on-one wellness services and outreach activities.
“Joining HealthWorks has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time at Penn State,” said Rachel Bliss, a current HealthWorks peer educator. “Over the past three years, this program has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me grow confident in my abilities, and clarified my future career path. Thanks to continuous training, I’ve gained the skills to consult with my peers and help them navigate those tough conversations during one-on-one sessions and outreach workshops.”
HealthWorks is open to all Penn State students. Selected students will participate in a comprehensive 3-credit training course in biobehavioral health about health behavior theory, promotion strategies and issues relevant to the college population. The course is designed to help students develop group presentation skills, facilitate one-on-one discussions and lead outreach events.
Applicants should plan to graduate no earlier than December 2026 to fulfill the commitment. To apply, students must submit an online application and their unofficial transcript by Feb. 28, 2025.
“HealthWorks is an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on skills such as communicating with peers about health topics in peer-led group workshops, one-on-one wellness sessions, and outreach events. This is a pre-professional experience where students work alongside professional staff in Health Promotion and Wellness, while becoming immersed in the operations of delivering health education to college students,” said Erin Raupers, assistant director in Health Promotion and Wellness.
For more information about the HealthWorks program, its mission, benefits of joining, and the application process visit the Health Promotion and Wellness website.