I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I could remember. As a freshman in high school my goal was to attend Illinois State University as an education major. Five years later, I am a sophomore in college studying Early Childhood Education.

I have always tried to get as much experience with children as I could. From babysitting to after-school care at the local schools I have loved every chance I have gotten to be around children. This program is another amazing opportunity for me to be there for another child and watch them grow to be a successful student.

College Mentors for Kids is an amazing program that pairs college students with elementary-aged students from the local schools near campus. In regular years, the students would meet there mentors in-person to do fun activities and get to know one another. Last year there were weekly zoom meetings where the mentor and buddy complete fun, educational activities and games together. This year we will meet over zoom again.

Being there for a child is super important at a young age. As a mentor I am able to provide a source of comfort and support in a child's life. Being a mentor is more than just having fun with a child, it is the personal gain and reward from watching the excitement in the child's eyes when they see me each week and watching them gain new knowledge.

I am super excited to see what this program has in store for my buddy and I and I could not be happier for getting this opportunity!