Difficult Appointments and Taboo Topics: Helping Peer Mentors Navigate Challenging Conversations

Abstract

This presentation explores how peer financial mentors in higher education navigate the complex and often unspoken world of financial taboo. Drawing on a three-year qualitative study involving 54 peer mentors across seven institutions, the research investigates how topics such as debt, budgeting, food insecurity, and financial aid are perceived as off-limits—either by institutional policy or social stigma. The study reveals that mentors are frequently restricted from offering guidance on investment strategies, recommending financial products, or providing detailed financial aid counseling. Simultaneously, students often avoid discussing financial struggles with family or friends due to shame, lack of knowledge, or strained relationships. These dual silences create barriers to effective financial mentoring. The presentation introduces a Gradual Release of Responsibility (G-R-R) training model to help mentors build confidence and competence in addressing sensitive topics. It also offers practical strategies for institutions to clarify boundaries, improve training, and foster supportive environments for both mentors and mentees. Ultimately, the session challenges institutions to reconsider what is deemed “taboo” and to empower peer mentors to engage in meaningful, empathetic financial conversations that meet students where they are.