DEEP’s mission is to promote student engagement for marginalized students through a social justice lens. The program implements peer interns who work with our residents and staff to proactively help students with affirming and celebrating their intersectional identities. DEEP interns serve as a community resource, connection point and empowerment aid that help students at a PWI (Predominantly White Institution) adjust and adapt by increasing resiliency. Our reciprocal learning model promotes academic success and student retention by focusing on improving student wellness, advancing intersectional equity, increasing a sense of belonging and improving community cohesion.