RAP Line to offer on-line service

The University's "Reach-a-Peer" Helpline is expanding both its board and services this year to accommodate student needs. The group has created a new position for a Penn Peer officer, who will be in charge of the new Penn Peer project which can be accessed over the Internet, according to newly elected RAP Line President and Wharton junior Scott Friedberg. "Our next big step is Penn Peer, which will be a helpline over the Internet," Friedberg explained. "It can be compared to a 'Dear Abby' service for the University." He said the new service is "coming soon," adding that he feels it will be a great help to the University. The completely confidential service, which will be offered over the World Wide Web, is being organized in conjunction with Data Communications and Computing Services. According to Friedberg, the Internet service was envisioned by RAP Line founders in 1991, but did not take solid form until the spring of 1995. The RAP Line will be continuing its regular telephone services while the organization branches into its Internet program. The other new officers include Training Vice President and College junior Kelly Decker, Public Relations Vice President and College sophomore Grace Kao, Penn Peer Vice President and Wharton sophomore Sapan Shahani and Secretary Shelly Goldklang and Treasurer Kathy Furst, both College juniors. The helpline is open seven days a week from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Students can reach a RAP Line volunteer by calling 573-2RAP. Friedberg said the service is not only for crisis situations, but for common student concerns as well. "We get calls about everything under the sun," he added. "Calls often concern relationships and academic issues, but we often handle more serious issues as well." According to Friedberg, the RAP Line is one of the largest and most organized groups on campus. "I'm really proud of RAP Line because of all the work the many staffers do without pay or public recognition," he said. "Personally, staffing of the helpline has been one of the most fulfilling experiences at Penn." Every staffer must complete a 40-hour training program before becoming part of the RAP Line. The staffers' main purpose is to provide information, support and referrals to University students. Friedberg explained that the process can be compared to taking an extra course. "I have loved being involved with RAP Line," said out-going President Erica Weissman. "I am especially excited because I have seen the awareness of the organization grow. I want to see students use the helpline."