Become a Teen Mentor!
A mentor is best defined as a role model who listens offers guidance and encouragement. According to SADD.org, “Teens with mentors say they are more likely to challenge themselves by taking positive risks (38% vs. 28%), such as joining an athletic team orvolunteering to perform community service.”
Mentors can be unrelated to you. Many think of a mentor as an older individual in your life that supports you and provides guidance when appropriate. However, teen mentors are becoming a very common theme and have proven to benefit both parties (the mentor and the mentee).
Teen mentors can be thought of as a “friendly advisor”. The relationship between mentor and mentee can be built around hanging out, playing sports, going to the movies, getting food together. It’s more laid back and not as serious. The basis of a teen mentor is support. Teens often go through the same problems, dilemmas, and hardships. ‘
For a younger teen, around 13 or 14 years old, it’s helpful to have a teen mentor around 18 or 19 years old. The mentor has recently experienced similar situations to what the mentee will soon experience. This also can ignite a cycle! When the mentee becomes a mentor to a younger teen.
The role of the teen mentor is to become a role model for the mentee. As a role model, it’s best for both, the mentor and mentee, to look out for each other. The great benefits of being a mentor and a mentee are; higher self esteem, higher self confidence, reliable support system, and courage.
How do you find a mentor? How do you become a mentee? A common way to find your mentor or mentee is through academic enrichment programs, extracurricular clubs, and sports. Occassionally you might become a mentor or mentee naturally through your similar interests or hobbies.
