Samira Sackietey

Peer-Mentorship Program
Reflections





Growing up I had always valued learning from others. Whether it was a
simple task or a life lesson, I always knew that I could to use any advice to guide me
in a certain situation in the future. After attending ASC's 19th Annual Alumni-
Student Forum, I took away a number of lessons that I not only can apply to my
college experience, but my life as a whole.
One focal lesson that I took away from the panel was that I should never let
myself get down. I must stay strong and keep pushing through any obstacles that
may come my way. Some ways of coping through hard times may include, religion,
or singing and dancing. I learned that its always important as a busy and stressful
college student to have time to relax. I had always been told this, but never really
paid much attention to this advice and since I started college this fall, I have enjoyed
many new experiences and friends. Still, I somehow managed to formulate the Idea
in my head that I really didnt belong here. However, after hearing Carmen Vasquez
talk about her similar experience, I was inspired to have a more optimistic and
healthy outlook towards my college experience and life. This included getting
involved in new activities but more importantly rebuilding my confidence.
Another significant lesson that I took away from the event was from one of
the workshops that were held by the alumni. In this particular workshop that I
attended, 1999 alum Tsehaynesh Abebe offered very useful advice and various ways
on how to take advantage of any opportunity that may come our way. This included
taking a semester abroad, or applying to internships, emphasizing the importance of
experiencing new things. This piece of advice particularly spoke to me because; I
have always been the type of person to take risks and explore new things. Most
importantly, I realized the significance of not being afraid to fail because, all I have
to do is get back up and dust myself off. Finally, it is important to realize it really
does not matter if you know exactly what you want to do, all that really matters is
that you tried.
Overall, my experience at the panel was an enjoyable one, as I met new and
familiar faces while also learning to overcome my troubles and reservations at the. I
hope that with the knowledge that I gained from the panel, I can help others cope in
hard times. Moreover I hope that I can impact lives one step at a time.