More Than Academics by Jenna

More Than Academics by Jenna - March 2023 Scholarship Essay

"A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you, than you see in yourself, and helps bring it out of you." — Bob Proctor. This quote is something that has been proved to me by the many mentors I have had the privilege of knowing throughout my life. A mentor is someone who should be supportive, kind yet firm, and ready to learn with you. Having a mentor in your life is like having someone to teach you how to drive for the first time: they will show you all the steps and equip you with the right knowledge, but still aren’t afraid to point out the mistakes that need to be addressed.
I have many mentors in my life who have helped me with school projects, meeting new people, joining organizations and even applying for colleges. Listening to their advice comes with trust. Because I have adults who trust me and my ability to make the right choice, I in turn trust that they are giving me the advice they believe is best for me.
Out of the mentors I have had my parents, for one, are blessed with patience and knowledge that they use to encourage my siblings and I no matter what path we choose. They have taught me how to cook, how to write correctly, how to use time efficiently, how to manage money and so much more. They tell me about their past mistakes and bad decisions so I can make better choices. They are willing to talk to me and tell me how the world works so that I can understand how to best move forward.
Besides my parents whom I have been with my entire life, I am honored to know my youth pastor, Janice Crane. She is the perfect example of a mentor in anybody’s life. She genuinely cares about my life and is excited to learn about awards, performances or games that I am a part of. Sometimes when faced with a difficult situation my parents don’t see the same way I do, I know I can talk to Janice about it. An important part of a mentor is mutual respect for each other. Janice listens completely to what I have to say and tells me what she thinks is best for me. Sometimes the advice she gives is not what she would do, but what she believes would be best for my situation.
I have many more people I would consider as mentors in my life, such as directors, teachers and older friends who are willing to share their knowledge because they know it can be helpful to me. Knowing such people in my life pushes me to one day become an example and mentor for someone as well. Although not always completely academic, encouragement in all parts of my life have helped me become a better student, communicate well, and learn to value education.
Overall, I believe a mentor is someone who is experienced and trustworthy, someone who wants to listen to you to help you choose the right things in life. I feel very lucky to have such mentors in my life who provide me with encouragement and support with every new direction I take.