When I think about the experiences that shaped me most, mentorship is always at the center. From professors who guided me through challenges, to supervisors who encouraged me to stretch beyond my comfort zone, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentors who believed in me. Their support gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities like my MBA and leadership roles.

I especially value mentorship because of my own journey as a first-generation student. During my undergrad, I was part of TRiO and other first-gen support programs that gave me access to guidance, resources, and community. Having mentors who understood the first-gen experience made me feel seen and supported at a time when navigating college felt overwhelming. Those programs showed me firsthand how powerful mentorship can be in helping students reach goals they never thought possible.

Now, I’m in a season where I get to pay it forward. Through my work with CBESS, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring both high school and undergraduate students. It’s more than just offering advice, it’s about helping students believe in their potential and reminding them that their stories matter. For me, mentorship is about building a bridge so that others can walk a little easier on their journeys.

What I’ve learned is that mentorship is not a one-way street. It’s reciprocal. I grow just as much from the students I mentor as they do from me. They remind me of the importance of resilience, curiosity, and the courage to dream big. Mentorship becomes a cycle of growth, where everyone involved walks away better than they were before.

That’s why I see mentorship as a core value of Authentically Aileen. It aligns with everything I want my brand to stand for: connection, leadership, and the belief that success means lifting others up along the way. By paying it forward, I honor those who invested in me and create space for the next generation of leaders to shine.

Think about someone who has mentored you, big or small, and reach out to thank them today. Or, consider becoming a mentor yourself. You never know how much your encouragement could change someone’s life.