The Need for a Mentor

When first coming into college I was unaware of what to do, who to talk to, and where to go. I felt as if it was a race with me against every other student at Western Washington to the first. With little resources I did what always did and that was attempted to adapt to my surrounding. It was a little difficult to do that in my cause considering African Americans only represent a minimum percentage on the campus, and when looking for a mentor you tend to look for those who can most relate to you.

This left me unengaged and wanting to leave to a campus where I could be better understood by individuals I could relate to. As I continued on my course of education I found myself slipping and heading in the opposite direction then I wanted to go.

As I continued on I then found the Ethnic Student Center which mission is to be that support system for minority students that I was missing. I suddenly saw myself here because for the first time I felt like I was apart of something on the universities campus. I saw those who have been here for years doing what I planned to do when I first came to this university, and that I success. These individuals then became my mentors. They guide me in the right direct and pick me up when I fall. They formed a model for students like me to follow, which eventually lead to my success. Now I'm where they were and giving back to those who were just like I is best.


Slide and McRenyolds say, "Students are more likely to succeed in university if they are given the opportunity to connect with and commit to the institution, interact with faculty and peers, and actively engage in their learning process." As you can see this is what I did to get to where I am today. Getting involved and finding someone or something to guide me through the struggle and trials I face on my path to a higher education.

Sidle, M. W., & McReynolds, J. (1999). The freshman year experience: Student retention and student success. NASPA Journal, 36 (4), 288–299.