Empowering Young Entrepreneurs: Bentley University Students as Mentors

Bentley University students assumed the role of mentors for high school students during the 2023 JA Be Entrepreneurial Challenge program. Kassidi Thompson, a student at Bentley University, was among those who returned as a mentor after previously participating as a high school student. Thompson expressed her desire to aid other students in uncovering their potential, as she herself had the opportunity to do.

The JA Be Entrepreneurial Challenge program, coordinated by the Bentley Honors Program, the Multicultural Center, and Undergraduate Admission, had a focus on guiding students and enhancing their skills through practical workshops. The overarching objective of the program was to assist young individuals in transforming their innovative ideas into viable business plans. A notable aspect of the event was the pitch competition, where students were able to present their sustainable transportation business plan.

The organization behind the program, Junior Achievement, seeks to bridge the wealth and opportunity gaps for youth in crucial impact communities through offering pathways for youth entrepreneurship and financial literacy. The program is in line with Bentley University’s strategic priority to expand access and opportunity to a diverse range of learners.

The success of the program was credited to the efforts of Tiary Gonzalez, a Bentley student who transferred from a community college to Bentley as part of the Honors Program. Working in conjunction with the Student Honors Council DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Committee, Gonzalez played a pivotal role in planning and executing the event. The collaboration of Bentley mentors was instrumental in ensuring the program’s seamless operation and the high school students’ positive experience.

By involving various departments and organisations within the university, such as the Honors Program, Multicultural Center, and Undergraduate Admission, the program provided participants with exposure to a variety of resources on campus. Cultivating a sense of community and support was particularly beneficial for first-generation students like Gonzalez and Ronchi, who valued the guidance and resources available at Bentley University.

The experience was impactful for both the mentors and mentees involved in the program. Mentors were able to witness the students’ growth and realization of their abilities, while also guiding them towards their potential. This opportunity not only showcased the expertise and commitment of Bentley University students but also demonstrated the university’s dedication to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

In conclusion, the partnership between Bentley University students and high school students in the JA Be Entrepreneurial Challenge program exemplifies the university’s commitment to supporting and nurturing young talent. The mentorship and guidance provided by Bentley students played a significant role in empowering high school students to explore their entrepreneurial potential and develop essential skills for their future endeavors.