Month: June 2025

By Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER WISE at Clemson University

Let’s tackle a myth that trips up even the most outgoing students:
“Community just happens organically.”

The truth? Sometimes it does. You might meet your best friend in a lab, at a study session, or walking across campus. But more often than not, real community doesn’t just “happen”—it takes intention.

One of the things I always tell our PEER WISE students is this: You have to show up. Not just for class or for grades, but for people. Community is built when you take the risk to say “hi” at a club meeting. It’s built when you stay after an event to help clean up and end up laughing with someone who becomes a friend. It’s built when you come back, again and again, even when you feel unsure.

Yes, there are organic moments—those unexpected connections that make you feel like you belong. But those moments often start because someone made a move: they invited, welcomed, asked a question, offered a smile, or created a space.

That’s what we do at PEER WISE. We don’t leave community to chance. We plan gatherings, mentor meetups, workshops, and study groups on purpose. We send the emails. We open the doors. We encourage students to invite a friend. We create space so those organic moments can actually happen.

So if you’re sitting on the sidelines wondering when your people will find you—this is your nudge. Show up. Say yes. Try again. The students you’re looking for? They might be looking for you, too.

Community takes time. But it’s worth the effort. And you don’t have to build it alone.

By Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER WISE at Clemson University

Here’s one myth I wish we could erase from every student’s mind before they even set foot on campus:
“You have to know exactly what you want to do from day one.” Let me tell you something honest and freeing: you don’t.

I’ve watched hundreds—probably thousands—of students walk through our doors feeling unsure about their major, their career, even who they’re becoming. And I want to say this loud and clear: not knowing is not a weakness. It’s part of the process.

STEM can feel very structured. There are plans, prerequisites, and pathways. But what many students don’t realize is that there’s also room to explore. It’s okay to change your mind. It’s okay to start in chemical engineering and discover you love computer science. It’s okay to take a class, realize it’s not for you, and pivot.

Some of our most successful PEER WISE alumni didn’t begin with a perfect plan—they found their passion by trying things. They talked to mentors. They joined clubs. They asked questions. They gave themselves permission to be in discovery mode.

And here’s something else: what you major in doesn’t have to define your whole life. You are allowed to grow, shift, and create your own path. That’s where the magic happens.

At PEER WISE, we believe in walking alongside you—whether you’re confidently charging forward or pausing to figure things out. We’ll connect you with mentors who’ve been there. We’ll help you ask better questions, explore new interests, and gain the confidence to make informed choices.

So if you’re feeling unsure, take a breath. You are not behind. You are not lost. You are just getting started.

And we’ll be right here with you as you find your way.

By Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER WISE at Clemson University

One of the most common myths I hear from students—especially first-years—is this: “If I’m in STEM, I won’t have a social life.”

Let me say this clearly: that’s simply not true.

I’ve worked with thousands of students over the years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that success in STEM is not just about studying long hours and grinding through labs. It’s also about connection, community, and taking care of yourself.

Our PEER WISE mentors are living proof. They’re studying engineering, computer science, math—you name it. They’re passing tough classes and showing up for their friends. They’re attending office hours and planning movie nights, game nights, and study sessions that turn into friendships.

The key? Balance.

STEM is rigorous, no doubt. But when students build in time to recharge, laugh, and connect with others, they don’t fall behind—they thrive. I’ve seen students do better academically because they had people around them cheering them on. A coffee break with a friend, a walk around campus, or even just sitting with someone in silence while working—it all adds up.

At PEER WISE, we don’t just focus on grades. We care about your whole experience. That’s why we offer community circles, mentorship, and spaces where you don’t have to choose between being a serious student and a whole person. You’re allowed to do both.

So if you’re just starting out and you’ve been told to buckle down and disappear into your books, I’m here to tell you: Make time for joy, too. Join a club. Call your mom. Go to that cookout. Celebrate your wins—big or small.

Because the truth is, the best engineers, scientists, and innovators aren’t just smart. They’re well-rounded, compassionate, and connected. And those qualities are built as much outside the classroom as in it.

You belong here—and yes, you can bring your whole self with you.

In your corner,
Serita Acker, Executive Director

By Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER WISE at Clemson University

Let’s clear something up right now: You don’t need to be a straight-A student to succeed in engineering.

This is one of the biggest myths I hear, and it holds too many brilliant students back. Engineering is challenging, yes—but it’s not about perfection. It’s about perseverance, problem-solving, and finding your own rhythm.

Over the years, I’ve seen students graduate and go on to do amazing things in the world of STEM—not because they never made a B (or a C), but because they didn’t give up when things got tough. They asked questions. They got help. They learned how to learn.

What matters most in engineering—and in life—is grit. The ability to get back up after a hard test. The humility to go to office hours. The courage to raise your hand when something doesn’t make sense. Those are the things that carry you through.

I want students to know: Your GPA doesn’t define your potential. It’s just one part of your story. If you’re passionate about building things, solving problems, or helping people through innovation, you belong in engineering.

At PEER WISE, we surround our students with support, community, and the belief that they are capable—no matter where they start. We believe in meeting you where you are and helping you grow from there.

So if you’ve ever felt like you weren’t “good enough” for engineering because of a grade, let this be your sign: You are more than a number.

Stay focused. Stay curious. Keep showing up.

We’re here for you—every step of the way.
—
Serita Acker
Executive Director, PEER WISE
Clemson University

By Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE at Clemson University

Let’s go ahead and bust this myth wide open: Tutoring is not just for students who are failing. In fact, some of our strongest and most successful students use tutoring regularly. Why? Because smart students know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of wisdom.

At PEER WISE, we see tutoring as a tool for growth, not a rescue plan. It’s a space where students sharpen their skills, ask big questions, and deepen their understanding. It’s where good students become great students.

Think about it like this: elite athletes still have coaches. They don’t wait until they’re injured or off their game to train—they work with experts all the time to stay at the top of their field. Tutoring works the same way.

Some students come to tutoring to get unstuck on a tough assignment. Others drop in weekly to stay on track and build confidence before exams. And many come just to talk through a problem out loud, because sometimes hearing yourself think makes all the difference.

Tutoring is also about connection. It’s a chance to meet upper-level students who’ve taken the course before and can offer not just content help, but real advice on how to manage the workload, talk to professors, or organize your time. Sometimes, what students need most is someone to say, “You’ve got this. I’ve been there too.”

So if you’re sitting in a class that’s moving fast or feels overwhelming, don’t wait for a red alert to ask for help. Step into a space that’s built to support you—before the stress sets in.

Our tutoring sessions are free, welcoming, and open to everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a passing grade or a perfect score, PEER WISE is here to walk with you.

Because learning is never a solo sport. And you don’t have to do this alone.

— Serita Acker
Executive Director, PEER WISE
Clemson University