LINK: Listening Inspires New Knowledge was developed in response to the increasing need for students to adjust to and navigate the challenges of college life. Over recent years, we have seen a heightened demand for additional support and connection among students, alongside compelling evidence of the benefits of peer support programs. In collaboration with the Wellness Center and Unity Center, LINK empowers students to uplift and support one another. Whether facing academic stress or seeking social and supportive services, LINK provides a safe, nurturing team for students to turn to when they need help. This program emphasizes non-clinical empathetic listening and peer support for students facing various challenges while also offering guidance on accessing professional resources when necessary.
The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) role is designed to encourage academic, personal, and social development to students through meaningful interpersonal LINK relationships. Our Peer Support Specialists provide guidance through an intersectional lens of both mental health and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). By encouraging interactive one-on-one connections, our PSS aims to provide valuable support and information to students in need.
Check out the LINK Coby Engage page to find out the PSS’s office hours and what events they are attending. Want to directly connect with them about a program or activity you would like to attend with them? Email them at LINK@cobleskill.edu or call the Wellness Center at 518-255-5225.
Kaylee Almonte
Hi everyone! My name is Kaylee, and this is my 2nd year as a peer support specialist. I'm a senior animal science major hoping to attend vet school. If you ever have any questions specific to the major, I'm here to help. Looking forward to another year of making connections!
Olivia Tolson
Hey! My name is Olivia; I am a sophomore in the Canine Training and Management program, an RA for Vroman Hall, and a Peer Support Specialist for the Wellness Center. I have three dogs and a pet corn snake. I am passionate about mental health topics and all things related to animals. Come see me if you need a problem solved or you just need someone to talk to! I am always looking to make new connections, hear other perspectives, and help others out however I can. After graduating, I want to experience all of the ways dogs can make people's lives better!
Lucas Williams
Hello! My name is Lucas Williams. I’m from Brooklyn, NY, and I’m currently in my senior year pursuing a bachelor's in animal sciences (BT). In the future, I hope to work at an animal facility of some kind while also nurturing a side career in art. I'm also a huge music lover; music has always been a major part of my life and identity. It’s helped me through a lot, and artists like Lil Uzi Vert, inspire me with their creativity and emotional expression.
I decided to become a peer advocate because I know how it feels to not have someone to talk to, to feel alone, and wish there was a safe, non-judgmental person to vent to. I want to be that person for others. My goal is to create a space where people feel genuinely welcomed and comfortable, whether they want to talk about what they had for lunch or open about deeper personal struggles.
I love talking about life, so never hesitate to approach me with anything big or small. I’m always down for a conversation, or just to listen if that’s what you need.
CJ Francis
Hely! My name is Caden Francis, but you can just call me CJ. This is my first semester as a Peer Support Specialist, and I’m excited to be part of the team. I’m currently in my second year as a Plant Science major. Outside of class, I enjoy playing basketball and connecting with people.
One of my favorite things to do is have conversations about whatever the other person is interested in. Whether it's something light and fun or something deeper and more personal. I love learning through listening.
I'm here to support you, so feel free to reach out whether you need someone to talk to, have lunch with, or just a quick chat between classes.
Fun Fact: I can say the alphabet backwards
Shannon Rivers
I’m so glad to be part of the Peer Support Specialist team this semester. This is my second year with LINK. I’m a Psychology major with a passion for understanding people and building community. I also serve as a Multicultural Educator on campus and am actively involved in my sorority, which has been a huge part of my college experience.
I’m a very social person—I genuinely enjoy talking with people and getting to know what makes them them. Whether you want to talk through something on your mind, share your interests, or just have a casual conversation, I’m here for it all.
College can feel like a lot sometimes, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect with you!