Volunteering as a college student can provide valuable work experience and allow students to acquire new skills. No matter the volunteering you choose, you’ll learn practical skills within real-world contexts that will serve you well throughout your life. Mentoring is a unique opportunity to step outside your usual network and gain insight into how the world looks through someone else’s eyes. Skills you can gain by mentoring are responsibility, leadership, effective communication, time management and accountability. 

Brenna is a MentorU mentor and a current college student. Read about her experience below! 

How do you juggle volunteering and college at the same time? 

I juggle being in school and a mentor by setting aside time to do both. School is important, so ensuring you have scheduled work time is essential. 

What made you want to become a mentor? 

What made me want to become a mentor was knowing that someone needed a person they could talk to. I also wanted to become one knowing that it would have been nice if I had one, and I wanted to give that opportunity to a mentee. 

What would you tell other college students who are interested in mentoring? 

I would tell other college students interested in becoming a mentor that it is truly exciting when you get told you have a match. Being a mentor is life-changing and has made me feel like I’m a part of something. 

What has the experience been like for you so far? What has been your favorite thing so far? 

My experience has been outstanding. The staff has been accommodating throughout the whole experience. My favorite thing about this experience has been meeting with my mentee once a month and talking to them in person. 

Why do you think it is important for college students to volunteer, especially mentor? 

Volunteering as a college student is important because it gives you a community of people to network and meet with. MentorU does a lot of fun events, and you get the opportunity to meet new people. It’s also important to me because I look forward to it, and it just feels like you are making a genuine connection.