Mentoring at any age, but especially in middle and high school, has the power to change students’ trajectories. Individualized support with a trusted, caring adult can help students navigate academic, social, and personal challenges —putting them on a path to succeed.
Research from The Mentoring Center shows that youth participating in mentoring relationships:
Experience positive academic outcomes, including better attendance, better attitudes toward school, and increased likelihood of pursuing post-secondary opportunities.
Are less likely to engage in negative behaviors, such as initiating alcohol and drug use.
Have more positive social attitudes and relationships.
My experience as a mentor has been amazing. Initially, my student and I took a little bit of time to get to know each other, but once we built some rapport and established a consistent schedule we were able to enjoy some more experiences together.
Sam D.
I like talking to my mentor because she listens, and she thinks I’m funny. Nobody else really does that.
Miguel H.
I dove into mentoring, thinking that I was going to be the one who would be making a difference. I soon learned that I had opened the door and had a new person in my life who would not only expand my horizons but make me laugh and with whom sharing a weekly lunch is the highlight of my week.
Brenda B.
My experience as a mentor has been amazing. Initially, my student and I took a little bit of time to get to know each other, but once we built some rapport and established a consistent schedule we were able to enjoy some more experiences together.
Sam D.
I like talking to my mentor because she listens, and she thinks I’m funny. Nobody else really does that.
Miguel H.
I dove into mentoring, thinking that I was going to be the one who would be making a difference. I soon learned that I had opened the door and had a new person in my life who would not only expand my horizons but make me laugh and with whom sharing a weekly lunch is the highlight of my week.
Brenda B.
My experience as a mentor has been amazing. Initially, my student and I took a little bit of time to get to know each other, but once we built some rapport and established a consistent schedule we were able to enjoy some more experiences together.
Sam D.
I like talking to my mentor because she listens, and she thinks I’m funny. Nobody else really does that.
Miguel H.
I dove into mentoring, thinking that I was going to be the one who would be making a difference. I soon learned that I had opened the door and had a new person in my life who would not only expand my horizons but make me laugh and with whom sharing a weekly lunch is the highlight of my week.
APIE mentors provide guidance and support to students, putting them on a path to succeed in school and beyond. Your gift helps us get more caring Austinites volunteering in schools as mentors by supporting our outreach and volunteer training.