As part of National Mentoring Month, today is “Thank Your Mentor Day.” CPE student Kela, a senior at Benjamin Banneker High School, expresses her thanks to her CPE mentor Heather below. Kela also reminds us how mentoring can impact the lives of low-income students as they navigate high school and college. Please join CPE today in thanking your own mentors on social media, and tell us what they meant to you. #MentorIRL
I first met my mentor Heather when I was in the 11th grade at Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. When I first met her, I was interested in learning about her job at the Capitol because in the future I would like to get into politics. She taught me a lot about her daily job, including writing about the Senate’s sessions and conducting many interviews with members of Congress. She’s been a huge help academically and emotionally.
Heather made sure that I stayed on top of more than 10 college applications and essays, and now is currently helping me find scholarships. Whenever I’m feeling down or need someone to talk to, she’s always there to lend an ear. I’ve truly stepped outside of my shell just being around Heather. I’ve tried raw salmon, tuna, eel, and yellow fish sushi, which I never thought I would eat. I’ve also been to an Italian restaurant where I saw members of Congress and got to enjoy my favorite food…pasta.
We have become important parts of each other’s lives, Heather came to my 16th birthday party, where she got to meet some of my other friends and family. Heather surprised me recently when she invited me to her wedding, I can’t wait to enjoy her special day with her!
We’ve really built a special bond and I wouldn’t trade her for anything. I appreciate the love and support that she has extended to me and my family. It has truly been an honor to be mentored by the best mentor in the Capital Partners for Education program.
Thank you Heather for all you’ve done for me. You’ve truly changed my life for the better.
I love you so much!