From Our Lead Mentor
Support and Encouragement
When I reflect upon my experiences in higher education, I attribute much of my success to the constant support and encouragement that I received from my family. When I read about the Guardian Scholars Program in the Summer 2007 issue of Sac State Magazine and learned about the opportunity to volunteer as a mentor for a former foster youth attending the university, I immediately knew that I wanted to become involved. Pursuing a college degree is difficult enough as it is, but the thought of embarking on that path without a strong support system is downright daunting. Mentors can have such a positive impact on the lives of students, and use their own life experiences to guide students in terms of their academic decisions and life goals. As a Sac State alum (MS – Counseling, ‘00; MA – Higher Education Leadership, ‘04), I felt that I could share my own unique insights and perceptions of college life with students who are just beginning their journey.
I have volunteered as a Guardian Scholars mentor since September 2007, and thoroughly enjoy the relationships that I have developed with various students. In addition to my assigned mentees, I have met other students at Guardian Scholars social events, and have maintained mentoring relationships with several students in the program. I recently learned that a Guardian Scholar wants to pursue the field of college student services – my profession – and I couldn’t be happier to help guide him in his chosen career path.
As the Guardian Scholars Program at Sacramento State continues to grow, I look forward to following the growth and development of these young adults as they successfully complete their educational goals and prosper in society as leaders and change agents.
