Growing with the Support of My Cohort

Since I started my internship with the National Ag Families Head Start Association, I would say the members of my cohort have been my biggest mentors. From the very beginning, they have encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, meet new people, and take advantage of every opportunity this internship has to offer. They have always pushed me to be more confident in myself and reminded me that growth comes from trying new things, even when they feel uncomfortable. Before this internship, I was nervous about speaking up and introducing myself to new people, but with their encouragement, I have become more comfortable building connections and participating in conversations.

What makes them great mentors is their leadership. They lead by example and are always willing to help create a supportive environment, where everyone feels included. They share their own experiences from previous internships and careers, which has given me valuable advice, and helped me better understand what opportunities are available in the future. Whenever I have questions or need guidance, they take the time to listen and offer support and remind me that it is okay to ask for help. Their willingness to invest in my growth has made a huge difference during this internship.

The biggest reason I consider them my mentors is because they genuinely want to see me succeed. They have introduced me to people from across the country, encouraged me to build professional connections, and given me experiences I never imagined I would have. Because of their support, I have become more confident in my abilities and more excited about my future career. Their guidance has helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I know the relationships I have built will continue to benefit me long after this internship ends. I am grateful for their mentorship and for the positive impact they have had on both my confidence and my future.

Blog Author: Lizet Rentería-Romero – Class of 2026

Published on July 31, 2026