In the craziness that is orientation week on college campuses, I had the opportunity this year to be a mentor for a program called ELITE (Educating Leaders In Today's Environment). I would just like to say a quick thank you to my mentees, so here it goes:

Dear Wild Cats,

Let me start off by saying, you are all amazing and wonderful and fantastic in every way, and I hope that college treats you well. You all deserve it.

I would just like you all to know that I cried more during the retreat than I have in my entire life. Watching you all work together, and watching such strong friendships develop right before my eyes...I just could not be more proud of you. Maybe this is what being a parent feels like. When we all shared our life maps, everyone was so supportive of each other. You all really got to know who each of the Wild Cats are, and who you are as individuals. You are all such amazing people, and I love you all. I only want great things for you, because you all deserve the best out of life.

It's amazing how, over the course of two days, such deep emotional bonds were formed. Believe me when I say that these friendships will last a lifetime. Take it from me. I am still close with my group from last year when I was a mentee - shout out to the Dogs! - and cannot wait to continue to get to know each and every one of you throughout the course of your college careers.

I know this was said a lot during the retreat, and even after, but I will keep telling you this until you're sick of it. I am always here for you. Need someone to talk to? I'm your girl. A shoulder to lean on? I'll be there. Just want to hang out and have lunch? Give me a call! Please don't be a stranger!

You are all such amazing individuals that are going to go far in life. I look forward to hearing about all of your successes, because you are all going to do great things. I can't say enough how proud I am to have had you as mentees.

Thank you for being so incredible!

"Once a Wild Cat, Always a Wild Cat"

~Troy Bolton

PS - I would also like to give a shout out to my fantastic co-mentor Maddy! I could not have done it without you!