group of students smiling

Common Ground

A Peer-Led Wellness Space for Connection and Care

What’s Common Ground?

Common Ground by RADical Hope is a four-week-long, peer-led wellness program that will help you level up your self-care, stress management, time management and communication skills—basically, all the things that make college (and life in general) a little easier. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with other students who get it.

“I liked talking to people that I would never have thought I would have something in common with and finding common ground.” – Common Ground Participant

How Does it Work?

  • Participants are organized into small groups and meet once a week to explore each week’s theme through activities and discussion led by a peer guide (approximately 75 min.)
  • Participants gain access to an online portal which serves as the central hub for all program elements, including inspirational videos and interactive resources that participants can explore on their own time.

Why Participate?

  • Campus Engagement: Discover and connect with campus clubs, activities, and resources, making it easier to engage fully in college life.
  • Community Building: Be part of a safe, welcoming space where you can share your experiences and support those around you.
  • Peer Connection: Build meaningful connections that can grow into lasting friendships.
  • Skill Development: Develop life skills like stress management, self-care, active listening, self-awareness and decision-making through interactive activities and guided conversations.

Join Us for Our Next Session!

Our spring session will run from March 16 – April 10.

Sign Up Today!

“Whether it was self care, priorities, or self talk–I learned to find little ways to help better my mindset and outlook on things.” – Common Ground Participant

Origin Story

Common Ground at Montclair originates from the RADical Hope foundation. Pam and Phil Martin established RADical Hope in honor of their son, Chris, who died by suicide in the Fall of 2017. Like many young people today, Chris experienced periods of profound emotional isolation and lacked the proper opportunities to express his struggles. RADical Hope is committed to improving the lives and futures of young adults by strengthening connections and building resilience. Learn more about RADical Hope.

Faculty & Staff: Refer a Student!

We invite all faculty and staff to refer their students to Common Ground x Montclair, a dynamic program designed to support students’ well-being, foster peer connections, and build valuable skills for health and resilience. Your referral can make a positive difference in a student’s experience, helping them thrive both personally and academically.

Next Steps

  • Share this webpage and encourage students to review the details and sign up for their chosen session.
  • If you are requiring your student to participate in Common Ground and want to track their progress, contact The Common Ground Team (contact information listed below) to gain access to the Student Progress Tracker spreadsheet.

Contact the Common Ground Team

Megan Walters profile photo

Megan Walters

Associate Director of Special Events, SDCL Operations

Phone
973-655-3324
Email
mchughm@montclair.edu
Location
Student Center, 422
John Han profile photo

John Han

Health Promotion Specialist, Dean of Students

Phone
973-655-3460
Email
hanj@montclair.edu
Location
Drop-In Center