Life Would be Pointless Without the People You Love

Throughout my life I have been extremely fortunate to have had multiple people who have acted as mentors. I remember back in 6th grade when I made the conscious decision to surround myself with only people who better me as a person. This decision, I believe is what led me to have so many mentors and guiding figures in my life.

One mentor who really stands out in my mind is Mr. Pregitzer from Milford High School. Mr. Pregitzer dedicated his time to making sure that all of his students succeeded. I truly admired Mr. Pregitzer because of the way he was so passionate about what he was teaching and doing (he was the adviser of Milford DECA, a marketing program for juniors and seniors). He was so intelligent, had so many connections, and knew all there was to know regarding marketing. He truly could have gone on to start his own company or do something that most would consider extraordinary; but really, me and the many other students before and after me would agree that what he did was more than extraordinary- he made a huge impact on our lives.

For me, Mr. Pregitzer helped me realize my potential. Through his guidance and motivation I was able to take 1st place in the nation in a Creative Marketing Competition. Never did I think I would be able to beat out 700 other students to win first place in Anaheim, CA. This new found confidence led me to apply for many colleges I would have only dreamed of going to. I went to Saint Louis University and then again, Mr. Pregitzer came in handy when I needed to make the tough decision to transfer or not. I didn't even have to email, call, or write him, I could just hear his words from high school always reminding me to do what I think is best for me, and follow my passion.

I believe I am where I am today thanks to Mr. Pregitzer. I know that no matter what I may need he will be the mentor who guides me in the right direction. What is so special to me about this mentor-ship was it wasn't forced- he didn't have to, he wanted to.

Since I was so lucky in the people I have been surrounded by, I always try to give back the same way people gave to me. I have never really been a mentor on purpose, or by assignment, they have just happened. For example, I came to Ohio State as a transfer student my sophomore year, and now, a sophomore that I live with just transferred here. I remember it being so difficult for me coming here; not knowing which orgs to join, how to meet people, everything was just very overwhelming. I try to make it a smoother transition for my roommate this year so that she can learn a lot easier than I did. I want her to have a better experience than I did my first year here so I do my best to share my knowledge of "what I would've/could've/should've done." While my relationship with my roommate is first and foremost a friendship, I still look at it as a mentor-ship because we are both learning from each other and sharing our experiences to better one another.