10 Oct MENTORS: It's a Family Affair
Nina and John Cobb
When a family friend said that she was a mentor for 10,000 Degrees, John and Nina Cobb of Kentfield each applied to become one of the most important members of the 10,000 Degrees family — a mentor. Mentors include community members, educators and businesses leaders, and program alumni.
We reviewed their applications and matched each of them with one of our 10,000 Degrees Institute students. John and Nina received guidance so they felt confident to help their mentee through the college acceptance process. “These students have various challenges and school is just one of them,” says John. “I’m doing my little part by pushing these kids to realize their full potential.” At 10,000 Degrees we do our part too, we make sure that each of our mentors is trained to: Read essays and applications; help students meet deadlines; give advice about college choices; direct students to scholarship resources; tell students, “I believe in you!”
For John and Nina — fresh from sending their two eldest children off to college — their first year as mentors “was fantastic,” says John. “An honor,” adds Nina, “it is never too late to lend a helping hand and watch someone grow into the person they are meant to be.”
John’s student, Javon Lewis, graduated from Marin Catholic High School and is now enrolled in Chico State as a freshman. “John was the biggest help,” says Javon. “We talked at least once a week and had lunch or dinner periodically. He organized my first visit to Chico State and for that I am forever thankful. Although I’m nervous for my freshman year, I’m ready and can’t wait to see what this upcoming year holds for me.”
Nina worked with Redwood High School senior Christina Alvarado and guided her through enrollment at College of Marin. “Christina was so eager and excited about all that lies ahead of her,” says Nina. It is our 10,000 Degrees mentors who can help turn a student’s excitement about the future into a reality. We’re excited to see John and Nina returning again as mentors and hope you will consider joining us and experiencing for yourself what it feels like when your student says, “I am one degree.”