Freshmen give their thoughts on the Freshmen Mentor Program

Here at AHS, we have the Freshmen Mentor Program. It is meant to help the Freshmen learn the ins-and-outs of high school and some tips to, not only survive but, thrive throughout their high school careers.

In order to be selected, the hopeful mentors must fill out an application. The applications for next year are due March 8th.

Pam King, the teacher in charge of FMP, explains, “Students fill out an application. However, we also put out the names of the students who apply to the teachers so that we can get feedback from them as well. Teacher evaluations weigh very heavily upon the decision making process.”

One upperclassman is grouped with 4-8 freshmen. They meet in homeroom periods and sometimes in history classes to discuss topics. The topics include dos-and-don’ts of homecoming, how to walk in hallways, best ways to relieve stress, and effective studying tips. The mentors create the schedules for the discussions the May before the year. They are given topics they must cover and create based on them and their own experiences.

The mentors have mixed feelings about the program. Some like it, some don’t, some want changes.

Junior Caroline Eggett explains, “I applied because I really wanted to help freshmen out and show them upperclassmen aren't snobby people. I like being a mentor, but I didn't feel like I was one last semester, so I am not going to fill out an application for next year. It needs more organization and bonding activities with the freshmen.”

Senior Michelle Guan says, “I really love helping people and giving people advice. I really enjoyed the experience! I got to bond with the freshmen I mentored and met new people. Overall the Freshman Mentor Program is really helpful to the freshman and fun to participate in.”

The freshmen also have mixed feelings.

Freshman Olivia Wamser tells how she likes it: “I enjoyed most of what we did, and my mentor was very helpful in talking about classes, exams, where things are, etc. Most of the activities were very fun.”

Freshman Isabella Hsia explains some changes she thinks should be made: “I really think you should let people get into their own groups, and then randomly assign mentors to the groups. My group could never hold a conversation because none of us knew each other, which resulted in a lot of sitting and doing nothing. It's why I don't even remember my mentor's name.”

In conclusion, the club is good but could use some changes to fix the organization and make it more interesting.