On Saturday, September 6, EMERGE kicked off the 2025–26 Mentorship Program with our annual Mentorship Program Orientation, bringing together more than 50 mentor–mentee matchups for a morning of introductions, activities, and meaningful conversations.
The orientation gave mentors a chance to learn more about their role in guiding EMERGE seniors through their final year of high school and the college application process, while also reminding us of something equally important: mentorship is deeply rewarding for mentors, too.
Mentors Share Their Journeys
For Aparna Surapaneni, the program has opened doors to new cultural experiences. She recalled attending Houston’s Lunar Festival with her mentee, who had once been part of a lion dance team. “I felt very energized being around that curiosity and level of interest these kids show at such a young age,” she said. Experiences like these not only helped her mentee feel seen but also gave Aparna a window into a culture and perspective she may not have otherwise explored.
Becky Eisenberg spoke about how mentorship has broadened her own life in unexpected ways. From taking her first mentee out for steak to discovering common ground through baking and color guard, Becky emphasized that mentors don’t need to have all the answers—what matters is showing up, listening, and connecting. “I’ve been to museums I never would have thought to visit, all because my mentee suggested it,” she said.
For Edgar Vargas-Castañeda, mentorship has been as much about his own growth as it has been about his mentees’. “Every year I’ve gotten better as a mentor… it’s coincided with a period of my life where I’ve been growing as well,” he reflected. Edgar described mentorship as being less of a mirror and more of a periscope—helping students see beyond what’s immediately in front of them to the many possibilities that lie ahead.
Longtime mentor Barbara Goldfield has seen the power of connection ripple across years. She shared how her six mentees have become part of her family and now support one another as well: “They look forward to getting together. They ask, ‘When are we getting our new mentee?’ They’ve been very helpful to each other. I can’t begin to tell you how gratifying it’s been.” For Barbara, mentorship has been “tremendously rewarding” both personally and for her entire family.
Kristen Habich reflected on how mentorship impacts not just students, but their families. She described being called by her mentee’s sister when the student was homesick at college: “The support that you bring to these kids and to their family is super meaningful. I certainly got more out of it than I think my mentee did.”
These stories are proof that while EMERGE scholars gain confidence, exposure, and support, mentors also walk away with new perspectives, friendships, and experiences that enrich their own lives.
Why Mentorship Matters
The EMERGE Mentorship Program is one of several opportunities offered within EMERGE. Interested students apply in late spring or early summer to be part of the program.
Selected seniors are paired with Houston-area professionals—mentors who apply through a similar process—representing a wide range of industries and personal backgrounds. Mentors commit to building meaningful relationships with their mentees through monthly check-ins and shared experiences. These experiences can range from job shadowing and career conversations to exploring new cultural or culinary traditions together.
Beyond the immediate relationship, mentors play a key role in expanding students’ social capital and professional networks. The program is a one-year commitment, but its impact can last a lifetime.
“Our mentors play a vital role in helping EMERGE seniors dream bigger, build confidence, and see possibilities they may never have imagined for themselves. In turn, mentors often grow as well—gaining fresh perspectives, new skills, and a deep sense of fulfillment as they support their scholars. We’re incredibly grateful for the mentors who make this shared journey possible for both scholars and mentors alike.” – Delaney Navarro, Senior Director of Donor Engagement and Mentorship Program Coordinator
Looking Ahead
After breakout sessions and mentor orientation, mentors joined their mentees for the first time. Together, they began building relationships and setting shared goals connected to EMERGE’s four pillars—career and networking, culinary, cultural, and community and belonging.
For our scholars, the program means having an additional adult in their corner as they navigate the college application process and prepare for life after high school. For mentors, it’s a chance to make a tangible difference while also experiencing the joy of seeing the world through fresh eyes.
We are grateful to every mentor who has stepped into this role and look forward to the connections, growth, and impact that will unfold this year.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Learn more about the EMERGE Mentorship Program: EMERGEscholars.org/mentor