During a recent I Am College Bound monthly promo, we asked student members to share a line or two about their mentors; those who pushed them to achieve their personal best and encouraged them to pursue higher education. Mentors can be parents, teachers, counselors, siblings, pastors, friends, community leaders or employers.

Below is just a sampling of the ways that mentors are changing students’ lives for the better!

Joshua (Franklin HS)
My father has always been my greatest mentor. Even though he doesn't understand anything about my dream job (Game Designer), he has tried his hardest to learn about it and help me pursue my goals. He supports me 100% and I couldn't ask for a better mentor.

Emily (Keene HS)
Pete Best from the KSC Upward Bound has really made learning fun and enjoyable. He not only improved my learning, but also improved who I am as a person. I have a lot more confidence in my classes, thanks to my six weeks of having him as a teacher.

Caitlyn (Goffstown HS)
My boyfriend has actually supported me for around two years now. He's had a tough life growing up and he's putting himself through college. It's very motivating for me to see someone put so much effort in being who he wants that it keeps me going strong through each day.

Ryan (Kearsarge HS)
My tenth grade Algebra teacher, Mr. Farrel taught me to not worry so much and that everything will all work out so long as you keep a great attitude, and have an incredible work ethic. Since he said that I have done so, and I’m the happiest person in the world.

Dennis (Monadnock Regional HS)
I know this AMAZING woman; she's the mother of NINE children. With whom she has raised with all the love and dedication a child could ever ask for; doing this practically by herself, with her husband being deployed. She is the ULTIMATE working mother.

Amber (Laconia HS)
I am now a junior in high school my guidance counselor Ms. Diorio has stuck by my side. We haven't always seen eye to eye but now I am finishing this semester making up two credits and transferring to night school.

Brett (Spaulding HS)
My mentor is my dad. He has 3 kids and provides for us all. He works very hard nearly every day because he didn't attend college. He always tells me to attend college. I'll listen because this shows me that I can go above and beyond to reach my goals.

Darianne (Alvirne HS)
I have had Mrs. Oakley as a teacher all four years of high school. Besides being continuously supportive of me in both my artistic and writing pursuits, she has also been great moral support. I don’t know where I’d be without her. Thank you, Mrs. Oakley.

Brandon (Newfound Regional HS)
My counselor helped me with emotional problems, which conflicted with my school life. She inspired me, which is why I'm now in 11th grade, for the first time passing with A's & B's and cannot be happier with myself.

Chelsea (Fall Mountain Regional HS)
My aunt, Louisa, took me into live with her the summer before I started high school when both of my parents died. She gives me love and comfort. She always encourages me to pursue what I love. She gave me all my motivation to continue my education after high school.

Sarina (Monadnock Regional HS)
My youth pastor has really supported me in my search for education beyond high school. With her influence and support I have visited 2 colleges in the past few months. I am only a freshman in high school but I already know where I want to go, thanks to her!

Julia (Pinkerton Academy)
As an immigrant, my mother has always encouraged higher education for a better life. I’ve fought her saying, “You didn’t go, why should I?” I would hear her prayers every night for me to understand her. She taught me hard work and perseverance. Next year I will be attending UNH.

Sarah (Bow HS)
My best friend’s mother has truly been an encouragement to me and the steps that I am making toward college. She is always asking me what my plans are and where I am thinking of applying. I know that if I need her help/support, I will always have it.

Adriana (Manchester Memorial HS)
My step father has impacted my life and has made me think of college constantly. He is always encouraging me to follow my dreams no matter how crazy. He does everything to get what we need and even though we may not have the money he still pushes me.

Keagan (Newfound Regional HS)
My mother has been the driving force behind my education. As a single mother she found the time to earn her college degree and take care of me and my sister. She is why I strive to better my education and my life.

Give props to your mentor! Find us on Facebook or Tweet the reason why you appreciate your mentor!