Steph has a long history in Bellevue - she grew up attending Lake Hills Elementary and now works at Amazon. Her unwavering commitment shows in the way she focuses on the long-term with her mentee: “As she starts to embark on her journey into her teen years and middle school, these check-ins give both of us the opportunity to put a ‘game plan’ together so we are ready to tackle the next adventure.”

Did you have mentors growing up? If so, how did they impact your life?
I have always been surrounded by amazing mentors. I have had coaches, teachers, family, and friends that have remained a constant positive impact in my life.

These individuals have helped me through all of life’s curve balls and I am eternally grateful for them. I am a big fan of seeking constructive feedback that helps me evolve. Being a mentor with RA has provided me with a vehicle to continue to make an impact with our youth. It is never too early to identify someone within your life that can help be that mentor.

Tell us about your mentee!
My mentee is amazing. She is smart, hard working, funny! I always learn so much from my time with her. We both are very outspoken and that makes for great conversation!

What is your favorite moment from mentoring?
I have enjoyed watching the transformation from one school year to the next. Seeing her mature even more and enjoy her final years in elementary school has been so much fun!

What would you tell other prospective mentors?
The experience is so tremendously rewarding. There are truly no words to describe how amazing it feels to have such a connection with my mentee and her family. As much as you are providing mentorship, you’re equally getting mentoring back from the kiddos!