To build connections among students studying education, the researchers implemented a First-Year Experiences (FYE) peer mentorship program with embedded professional development workshops called Teachable Moments for first-year students. This innovative approach to meeting the needs of first-year students was measured through a mixed-methods project using an open-ended survey and the coding of qualitative data from communication logs. Data revealed that the programmatic and curricular guidance and support provided to the first-year students led to the establishment of vital connections and positively impacted retention from their first to their second year.