Service-Learning site visits

After visiting my service-learning site last week, I have a lot of thoughts. First, I am questioning my ability to really mentor someone over 6 years younger than me. At the same time, I'm excited that I have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of someone in such a pivotal stage in their lives. I remember my days in middle school. There is no way I could've gotten through it without the help of my older siblings and mentors. While at Hand Middle School, there was a least four of five students that came up to the person showing us around asking her when the mentoring program would be starting. I am really excited to know that these kids actually want to participate and meet with us, rather than being forced to. One worry that I have is that I won't be able to connect with my mentee. I want to positively influence them, and I know that I must earn their trust and respect first before doing that. In mentoring, I hope to gain some knowledge. Being the youngest in my family, I haven't really known what it's like to have someone look up to me. I want them to know that having fun is great but starting early on the right track for school will make life so much easier for them. I am excited to be participating in a community service project that will truly influence other lives.