Life is a journey of knowledge. We are constantly learning new things, and we have friends, family and -- if you are lucky enough -- mentors to guide us along the way.
We've all had someone who has given us advice at some point of our lives. It may have been a fleeting moment, but it may have changed the course of your life. Mentors share their successes and their downfalls so you can learn not make the same mistakes, or that you should take risks in order to achieve your dreams. I'm part of the Fulfillment Fund, which is an organization in LA that helps students get to college. You get matched up with someone who guides you into adulthood. This person is someone who will hopefully become someone you can talk to and learn from. They can become a friend, a sister or brother you never had. They talk to you about your likes and dislikes, your hopes and dreams, your hobbies, and what you want to do in life. They push you to be better you, personally and academically.
My journey is barely getting started, and I have been lucky enough to be paired with a mentor who I undoubtedly look up to and admire for her independence and incredible character. She has changed my perception of the world outside of high school. She treats me like a sister. She pushes me academically, and always asks about what I am doing in order to succeed in my planned career path. She teaches me about adventure and that being successful is tied to loving what you do. She has taught me to love sushi and how to ice skate, and I know I will learn much more from her. I can't imagine going through my high school years without her guiding me.
I have the highest respect and perception of mentors. When I think of being in their shoes, I realize what a daunting task it must be. I imagine their willingness to help comes with a small dose of fear of having to be someone others learn from. But, I also know that you never get to the top alone.
I imagine that there is nothing more fulfilling for teachers and mentors than to see their students and mentees succeed, knowing that they were the ones who helped them get there. There is no age minimum or maximum to become a mentor. It can start with your sibling or friends. If you feel like you have knowledge you want others to know and you want to see them become better people, then become a mentor!
Believe me when I say that students of both middle and high school are always in need of someone to guide them. We are barely getting started and we need others to help us besides family and teachers. If you have any doubts about not knowing enough or maybe not knowing what to expect, ask yourself if you have wisdom and advice that you want to pass on, and you will have your answer.