March 2025 Mentor of the Month

This month we have a first person perspective on what’s it’s like to be a Peer Mentor at College Steps! March’s mentor of the month is Sabat Ali. Sabat says, I have absolutely loved being a peer mentor over this academic school year. What I love most about this position is the opportunity to connect with students and make a real difference in their college experience. It is incredibly inspiring to see a student gain confidence, find their path, and overcome obstacles with just a little encouragement or guidance.

I also value being part of such a supportive and encouraging community, where we can collaborate and build off one another’s ideas. It’s motivating to know that the time I dedicate to mentoring can have a lasting and meaningful impact on the students I work with.

The most fulfilling aspect for me is seeing a student leave a session having successfully navigated something that once felt overwhelming. Moments like that truly highlight the importance of this role.

Overall, being a peer mentor has been an amazing experience that has helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I am so grateful to have been part of this team.

February 2026 Mentor of the Month

Kim joined the Kean Mentor Team in Fall 2025, and we’re excited to welcome them back this spring as a Lead Mentor! Kim supports students with genuine respect and thoughtfulness, bringing joyful energy to every session, especially when sharing their love of travel and music. As a first-generation graduate student pursuing a M.A. in School Counseling, Kim brings valuable experience and a strong commitment to supporting diverse populations. They remain dedicated to advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion as a mentor and beyond.

January 2026 Mentor of the Month

Brookelyn Kimball is a third-year history and secondary education major at VTSU–Castleton and is in her second year as a peer mentor. She brings compassion, patience, and creativity to her work.

Students enjoy working with Brookelyn and value her engaging, high-energy approach to coaching and skill-building.

She is passionate about helping students feel connected by introducing them to others on campus. In her free time, Brookelyn enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her dog Kylo, and coaching unified sports at a local high school.