Victoria Rico
Mentee 17 - 18 academic school year
Mentor & USTU Peer Instructor 19 - 20 academic school year
"I wanted to become a mentor because I wanted to help students just like my mentor helped me in so many ways. SMP provides a place for growth and experience within myself and within my fellow peers."
Justin Naidu
Mentee 18 - 19 academic school year
Mentor & USTU Peer Instructor 19 - 20 academic school year
"As a former mentee in SMP, I wanted to find another way to share my experiences at UC Merced with other students. The mentor I had during my freshman had made a huge impact on my life. My mentor at the time was the main reason why I took on the role as a mentor. I wanted to be a person who would have a positive influence on someone, just like my former mentor had on me. I felt encouraged by the position as a mentor to better enhance my leadership and communication skills. My favorite thing about being with SMP is just the overall optimistic and encouraging environment. I am able to learn new things everyday from my mentees and fellow mentors."
Izza Belle
Mentee 18 - 19 academic school year
Mentor & USTU Peer Instructor 19 - 20 and 20 - 21 academic school year
"I became a mentor because I first handedly knew the struggles of going to college without the help of someone to guide me, it was a difficult transition, both academically and socially. Without my mentor, I wouldn't have gotten any of the opportunities I have today; although I was able to achieve them through my work, she really pushed me to my full potential and made me confident in myself to strive."
Brooke Wilson
Mentee 18 - 19 academic school year
Mentor & USTU Peer Instructor 19 - 20 and 20 - 21 academic school year
"Why I became a mentor: As a first year, I was really confused about where to go to find my classes or clubs or organizations that I thought I would be interested in, but once I got a mentor she helped me academically, professionally, and personally. I wanted to reciprocate that for future first-year students and to help them find their sense of belonging here at UC Merced!"
