My first semester at Slippery Rock University has been a journey of self-discovery and growth, both academically and personally. Thanks to Mentors, I have had the time to commit myself to the Honors program at Slippery Rock. I have also invested time volunteering, both on campus and throughout the local town of Slippery Rock. My favorite experience thus far has been volunteering at the Macoskey Environmental Center. The staff at the Environmental Center have taught me how to grow vegetables, take care of chickens, and most importantly, have helped me to discover a passion for the environment. This experience has inspired me to start going on hikes and bike rides within Moraine State Park. The Macoskey Center’s philosophy focuses on using renewable resources and sustainable living. I took this message to heart and I hope to work for the Macoskey Center next semester and incorporate its ideals into my way of living.

In addition to volunteering, I was able to dedicate a large portion of my time to studying and I achieved a 4.0 this semester. With the prompting of my mentor, Mrs. Garcia, who oversaw my high-school internship, I decided to immerse myself into the field of social work at Slippery Rock. I did so by attending social work events with faculty and by building relationships with other students in the same major. Additionally, with Mrs. Garcia as my mentor, I have always had someone to reach out to with questions about my major, my future, and with my adjustment as a freshman student. Throughout our texts and phone calls, I have learned about Mrs. Garcia’s college experience and her current work as a social worker at five elementary schools. She has discussed her previous internships with me and provided practical information and advice about the diverse field of social work. Throughout these discussions, I have been able to better understand my potential role in my chosen career path.

The support of the Mentor’s Foundation scholarship has provided many opportunities for me that have made my college experience more meaningful and I am excited about continuing my future academic career at Slippery Rock University.