As America’s Premier Community Banking School, GSBC takes pride in creating a strong sense of community through its Peer Group program. This initiative provides new students of the Annual School Session with a unique opportunity to form meaningful connections even before arriving on campus.
From day one, students join a tight-knit network that goes beyond camaraderie. These connections foster confidence and provide a supportive foundation as students navigate their GSBC journey.
How the Peer Group Program Works
- Virtual Kickoff: Peer groups meet twice virtually in June, guided by upperclassmen mentors who help new students transition seamlessly into the GSBC experience.
- In-Person Kickoff: Connections are further strengthened during an in-person kickoff event on the first evening of the July session.
- Ongoing Collaboration: Throughout their first year, peer groups continue to meet regularly, collaborating on the mandatory Peer Group Project and supporting one another along the way.
The Impact of Peer Groups
This program cultivates a vibrant community where students challenge, inspire and support one another while applying GSBC’s teachings to their institutions.
The feedback speaks for itself:
- “The peer group experience is by far the best part [of GSBC]. The peer group I am in is amazing.”
- “My peer group offers a good mix of professional experiences, and we work well together.”
- “The bonding dinner really helped us get acquainted with each other.”
The Bolder Bonding Peer Group Dinner & Showcase
On the first day of the Annual School Session, new students participate in the Bolder Bonding Peer Group Dinner & Showcase—a light-hearted, structured event designed to help students put faces to names and forge connections. This initiative enhances the sense of belonging, ensuring every student feels supported and welcomed.
At GSBC, we know collaboration and connection are essential to success. Through the Peer Group program, we cultivate a bold community where ideas flourish, and community banking professionals grow with confidence.