How a Mentor Can Help You Get Into College
Why Mentorship Matters in High School
Think about how many decisions you make in just one school year — which classes to take, what activities to commit to, when to start preparing for college entrance exams. Now imagine having someone who has already been through it to guide you. That is what a mentor offers. Instead of guessing, you gain a trusted voice who can share lessons learned and keep you focused on your goals.
Making Smart Academic Choices
Colleges do not just want to see good grades. They want to see that you challenged yourself in the right ways. But knowing whether to take honors, AP, or dual-enrollment classes can be confusing. A mentor helps you make choices that show growth without overwhelming your schedule. For example, a teacher who knows your strengths might suggest AP English instead of AP Biology, steering you toward classes that highlight what makes you shine.
Tackling Tests and Applications
Few things cause more stress in high school than standardized tests and college applications. A mentor can walk you through the process step by step. Maybe it is helping you create a study schedule that actually sticks, or reading over your first draft of a college essay and showing you how to make your story more personal. Having someone who has seen the process before can turn a stressful experience into something manageable.
Building a Stronger Story Outside of Class
Grades and test scores matter, but they are not the whole picture. Colleges want to know who you are beyond the classroom. This is where mentors can connect you to opportunities you might not discover on your own. A coach might point you toward a leadership role on your team. A counselor might know about a local volunteer program that lines up perfectly with your interests. These extra experiences help your application stand out.
Confidence That Carries You Through
Applying to college can feel like you are constantly comparing yourself to others. A mentor helps silence that noise. They remind you of your strengths, encourage you when you want to quit, and celebrate your wins along the way. Sometimes the biggest difference a mentor makes is simply believing in you until you learn to believe in yourself.
Where to Look for Mentors
You might already know your future mentor. Teachers, coaches, and counselors are often the first people students turn to. Older students who have recently applied to college can also share insights that feel fresh and relatable. And organizations like Torch and Laurel make mentorship part of the experience, connecting you to a network of leaders who understand what it takes to reach your goals.
Taking the Leap
Getting into college is one of the most exciting steps of your high school journey. While the effort is yours, the guidance of a mentor can make the path clearer. With someone by your side, you are not just preparing to apply. You are preparing to succeed once you get there.