The volunteer mentors on iCouldBe.org bring a wealth of diverse perspectives and dynamic voices to the relationships they forge with our students. The following stories offer a glimpse into the expertise and enthusiasm accessible to mentees within the iCouldBe.org community.
Marruk: “I am an Associate Art Director and want to give teens a clear image of what it takes to make it in an art field. I know I could have benefited from a program like this when I was in high school. I want my mentees to know it’s okay if they don't end up going to top schools – there are still plenty of opportunities available to them.”
MPower: “icouldbe.org gives teens new vision and hope for their future. It's a chance to help them avoid the pitfalls and stumbling blocks that can cloud their vision.”
Jen00: “I’m a Weapons Systems Officer working for the US Air Force. I joined iCouldBe.org because I grew up in a low-income household with a single mother and understood early that education could send me places. I think making it from HUD housing to being an officer and fighter pilot in the US Air Force helps me understand where students in need come from.”
Debbit: “I was one of those kids who was considered ‘at risk’ because of all the turmoil at home. When I heard about icouldbe.org, I signed up immediately. My goal with iCouldBe.org is to let kids know that college is within reach no matter what their circumstances.”
Fyrfly: “I've recently graduated from college after studying Biology and Anthropology and I've just been accepted to graduate school for Geophysics. I joined iCouldBe.org because I'm acutely aware of how lucky I've been. I think that middle school and high school can be a very, very stressful time for kids and sometimes an external mentor can really help to keep problems in perspective.”