Periods of adjustment can be complicated by the hardships of adolescence, first-time-freedom or home sickness. A peer facilitator is an established part of student life for many. The relationship is usually between an underclassman and an upperclassman. Peer facilitators are common in fraternities and sororities, in which young pledges, those in the initial stages of joining the organization, are paired with older members who are familiar with the difficulties that a freshman or sophomore is facing. The older members often counsel their charges in relationships, social life, studies and family problems. The non-academic, friendly person to talk with is the preferred alternative for some to professors, guidance counselors or student instructors.
The academic setting of a college is, for some, their first experience with students of various races or backgrounds and the first time they encounter a group-learning environment. Experienced peers serve as mentors, teachers and guidance counselors to first-year students. Such programs emphasize the importance of learning communities that many students may be part of for the first time.
As an example of the assistance offered to veterans, the New England Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center sponsors Veteran Recovery program. A website offers information for those interested in vet-to-vet peer counseling. A Veteran Recovery job description for peer facilitator stresses, among other abilities, acting "genuinely and honestly as a role model to other veterans," as well as providing "support and education in the peer group setting," and emphasizes communication, listening skills, patience and flexibility -- all with the objective of assisting veterans in recovering from their military experiences.
Facilitators are not limited to any specific age or profession. They are valued in part because of their ability to understand first hand the issues someone else is facing. Often, a peer facilitator offers services without compensation. The abilities to listen, teach and organize are important to a peer facilitator.