So, here at Ball State, we have summer bridge programs. Basically, these programs help incoming new students have time to adjust to being in college before their classes start. Before starting my freshmen year, I joined the C.L.A.S.S program. It changed my life.

This program was three days long and focused on being a leader, doing a service project, and getting involved. I had the most amazing mentors, who helped me. I was able to make friends and learn a lot about campus. It helped me grow so much as a person. It honestly probably helped save my life. I knew I wanted to be a part of this program in future years.

When an email went around asking for new mentors for this coming up year, I applied right away. I was lucky enough to be chosen. I waited all summer to be able to meet my mentees and mentally prepared for the experience.

I got to start my first day of mentoring on August 13th. I don't regret a single moment of what followed. My fellow co-mentor and I were put in charge of a small group of ten students. Even though they were only there with us for three days, I got to watch each one of them grow so much. I saw them start off as these quiet students who wouldn't talk to each other and finish off as a strong little family. I got to see them share their stories and get to know more about each other.

Even though I was the mentor, I learned so much from all of them. They are all very unique individuals from different paths of life, who are going to do some amazing things on this campus. They will each accomplish something big in the future.

They made being a mentor worth it. I hope I made just as much of an impact on them that did one me. They taught me strength, courage, and how to be yourself. I'm 100 % certain that I'd love to be a mentor next year to make a difference in more college students' lives.