Peer-Led Group

Applications are open throughout the year.
Fill out the registration form here: Registration form (Google Form)

The group was founded through a collaboration between ISSA and the International Mentoring Program (IMP) to address the unique pressures faced by international medical students. Its mission is to:

• create an inclusive and understanding environment
• normalize academic and emotional difficulties
• reduce loneliness and isolation
• encourage practical, peer-tested ways to cope with medical school struggles

While the group is peer-led, the program benefits from the professional involvement of Psychologist Gabriella Pintér, who supports the structure, quality, and psychological safety of the sessions.
Her role ensures:

• evidence-based guidance in session design
• a supportive framework for both participants and group leaders
• an expert point of contact whenever deeper mental-health insight is needed

Sessions are facilitated by experienced IMP senior mentors, selected for their commitment to student well-being. The current group leaders are:

• Everett Mintsoulis
• Adesola Esther Odunowo
• Sungwoon (Peter) Kim

Together with Gabriella Pintér, they work to maintain a warm, welcoming, and relatable environment rooted in the principle of students helping students.

• Format: small-group, discussion-based meetings
• Topics: stress management, work-life balance, coping mechanisms, shared experiences
• Frequency: weekly during the semester and exam period
• Setting: confidential, relaxed, supportive

Students are welcome to join whether they want to share, listen, or simply connect with others.