This Month's Highlights
The Impact of Showing Up: Krista’s Mentorship Journey
Consistency and presence can transform mentorship into lasting friendships. Krista’s journey with Natalin is a testament to the power of showing up, building trust, and fostering growth over time.
Read their story below.
"At first, it was just about homework," Krista shared. "But as we spent more time together, we built a strong connection and trust, moving beyond just mentoring to genuinely supporting each other. The most rewarding part has been helping her see value and joy in her challenges while also learning so much from her in return."
The Power of Presence: Krista and Natalin's Journey
"It was more like friends who share things and enjoy each other’s company."
Krista and Natalin are nearing the final stretch of their four-year coaching relationship through CREO. Despite Krista spending a semester living in Medellín, Colombia, their bond remained strong through weekly virtual meetings, demonstrating the power of consistency and connection.
Krista was matched with Natalin when she was a freshman at Wheaton College, and Natalin was a 9th grader at Glenbard West High School. Initially, Natalin was hesitant about joining CREO, unsure about trusting someone new. "At the beginning, I didn’t really want to be in CREO," she admits. However, Krista's persistence and encouragement gradually built trust, transforming their relationship into something meaningful.
"In the beginning, I did most of the talking, and asking the questions," Krista recalls. Over time, however, Natalin began to open up, asking for help with her homework and practicing presentations. "She realized that we are in this together, and our consistency built trust. Our use of time became more effective."
Through Krista’s guidance, Natalin gained confidence and patience with herself, realizing that success comes with steady effort. "Krista believed in me, so I did too," Natalin shares.
The Impact of Commitment and Presence
For Krista, her own experiences with mentorship during high school inspired her commitment to CREO. "I had a mentor who met with me every week, and I saw the impact of long-term investment in someone’s life." She believes mentorship is not just about providing guidance but about being present and faithful to the relationship, even when life gets busy.
"There were times when I felt too busy or tired, but I would log in, slow down, and just be present," Krista explains. "It taught me that showing up consistently is worthwhile."
Looking Ahead
As they approach the end of their formal coaching relationship, both Krista and Natalin reflect on their growth. Natalin, now more confident and driven, looks forward to becoming a CREO volunteer in college. "I want to share this experience with someone else," she says.
Krista, impressed by Natalin’s maturity and wisdom, acknowledges that mentorship is a two-way street. "Even though there’s an age gap, I’ve learned so much from her. We share a lot of the same struggles, just in different contexts."