Key Benefits for Mentees

One-on-one guidance from current college students who have recently navigated the transition from high school to college Practical advice on college readiness, academics, campus life, and time management Support with goal-setting, leadership development, and confidence-building Insight into real college experiences, expectations, and challenges A trusted peer mentor to ask questions and receive personalized support

Key Benefits for Mentors

Opportunity to give back by supporting and guiding high-achieving high school students Development of leadership, communication, and mentorship skills Meaningful service experience that strengthens resumes and graduate school applications Ability to make a direct, positive impact on students preparing for college Expanded professional and peer network within the NSHSS community

NSHSS Mentoring Program

NSHSS has launched a new mentorship initiative that pairs NSHSS Ambassadors with NSHSS Collegiate Council members for personalized guidance on college readiness. Through one-on-one mentorship, Ambassadors gain firsthand insight into the college experience, academic preparation, leadership development, and navigating the transition from high school to higher education. Mentorship is a powerful tool for both personal and professional growth, and this program offers a meaningful opportunity for students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their academics and involvement with NSHSS. We are excited to support Ambassadors as they prepare for the next chapter of their academic journey. For more information, please contact collegiatecouncil@nshss.org.

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One-on-one guidance from current college students who have recently navigated the transition from high school to college
Practical advice on college readiness, academics, campus life, and time management
Support with goal-setting, leadership development, and confidence-building
Insight into real college experiences, expectations, and challenges
A trusted peer mentor to ask questions and receive personalized support

Opportunity to give back by supporting and guiding high-achieving high school students
Development of leadership, communication, and mentorship skills
Meaningful service experience that strengthens resumes and graduate school applications
Ability to make a direct, positive impact on students preparing for college
Expanded professional and peer network within the NSHSS community

Why Mentoring Matters: Stories from Mentors & Mentees

Mentoring is more than guidance—it’s a catalyst for growth, confidence, and lasting impact. Whether you’re sharing your experience or seeking direction, mentoring creates meaningful connections that empower individuals to reach their full potential.

Through mentorship, knowledge is passed on, perspectives are broadened, and goals become more achievable. It’s a two-way exchange that benefits both mentors and mentees, fostering learning, leadership, and personal development. In fact, many of last year’s mentees have stepped into mentor roles this year—reflecting the lasting impact of the program and the strength of its community.

Sara Kaufman

"My NSHSS mentor is doing nearly exactly what I want to be in a few years. Right from the get-go, we have been able to connect over shared professional passions, and he has supported me through the challenges and questions I have faced in my work. He has helped coach me through important career decisions, like if, when, and how I want to apply to medical school. We have also engaged in discussions surrounding the ethics of animal research, stories from our experiences working with patients, and the intersections of art and science. Through this program, I am getting to grow not only as a future physician-scientist, but as a person, and I am immensely grateful to my mentor and to NSHSS for this opportunity." - NSHSS Member Sara Kaufman, JHU student

Mry'lice' Dickens-Morse

“I am so glad that I made the decision to join the NSHSS Mentoring Program as a mentee. The team was able to match me with Fellow and professional in my field, that turned out to be an amazing match. It’s been great to talk with my mentor and explore options beneath the umbrella of my future career field and learn about how different paths and careers can still contribute to the industry." -NSHSS Member Mry'lice' Dickens-Morse

Blaise Bowers

"Life is like a forest at night, and mentorship is a flashlight. There are a lot of parts of my life that I would find very difficult to traverse without a mentor to give me the broader perspective required for responsible decision-making. I chose to be a mentor because I want to give flashlights, just as flashlights have/are given to me."

Program Structure

Our 12-week program, running from May through August, is thoughtfully designed to provide a balance of personalized, one-on-one mentorship and a collaborative community experience. Participants benefit from dedicated time with their mentor or mentee while also engaging in group sessions that encourage shared learning, connection, and support.

Mentor Training
Mentors begin with a guided training session to prepare for their role. This includes an overview of program expectations, effective communication strategies, and practical tools to help structure meaningful and productive mentoring conversations.

Program Kickoff
The program officially begins with a live group session where mentors and mentees meet for the first time. This session sets the foundation by outlining goals, expectations, and creating an environment of connection and trust.

Ongoing Mentorship
Throughout the program, mentors and mentees meet one-on-one, building a relationship focused on growth, accountability, and personalized guidance.

Midpoint Check-In
A full-group session brings everyone back together to reflect on progress, exchange experiences, and learn from one another’s journeys, reinforcing the community aspect of the program.

Final Session & Celebration
The program concludes with a final group gathering to celebrate progress, recognize achievements, and reflect on the overall experience.

By combining individualized mentorship with shared group experiences, the program creates a supportive environment where participants can grow together while receiving focused, personal guidance.