In the second week of spring term, I left my orchestra rehearsal distraught. Along with around fifty other sophomores, I learned that I did not receive the position of a peer counselor. A fellow musician echoed my dismay about the lack of diversity among the selected peer counselors compared to previous years.
The peer counselor selections manifest the Academy’s inability to overcome stereotypes that loom over elite institutions. Deerfield prides itself on its diversity, as 44% of the student body self-identifies as people of color and 15% as international students. Therefore, student leaders, such as the approachable peer counselors, should reflect that very same diversity.
A few days before announcing the decisions, the Class of 2025 received a poll asking students to vote on candidates who best fit the role. Although feedback from faculty, students, and current peer counselors proves to be valuable, there should be less emphasis on one’s popularity. While discussing the survey with my peers, I found that almost everyone voted for their friends as an act of support. However, peer counseling delves into serious topics that require connecting a student with a mental health professional. A student’s ability to carry out the responsibilities of the position should be the defining factor. By blurring the lines between a formal application process and a popularity contest, the process undermines the purpose of the peer counselors and damages students’ trust in the program.
Peer Counselor Co-Advisor Allison DiNardo described the fundamental goal of the peer counselors as letting “every member of the Deerfield student body feel as though they can connect with at least one of the 16 PCs.” These connections are often established on the basis of race and gender. During the application process, Counselor Daily and Ms. DiNardo look for “Key Identity Markers” to pinpoint students who connect with a wide range of peers. To students, the process of creating a diverse selection of peer counselors may come across as obligatory and insincere.
Moving forward, I’d like to see more education about the peer counseling application process and an alternative to the poll. Deerfield boasts a diverse student body with a vast range of extraordinary talents and leadership skills. These changes will allow students to view the benefits of the program in an even more positive light.
