Alicia Serrato discusses her mentorship with a former student. Special thanks to Adrian Neely for creating this video!
Primos comes from my experience in navigating life as a Texicana from Pleasant Grove, and from my experience with students as an educator. I've been an educator in the Dallas Independent School District for over 12 years teaching both middle school and high school students.
In the past few years, I’ve gained a mentor; she really pushes me and encourages me to evaluate my decisions. I now look back and think what decisions I would’ve made differently as teenager had I had a mentor at a younger age.
In the past few years, I’ve also gained a mentee. Our relationship has compelled me to think about how I can impact students beyond the classroom. Young people need someone that can push them, connect with them, and guide them.
In 2021, I completed my Masters in Liberal Studies with a focus on Racial and Social Justice at SMU. I built upon my mentoring experiences to craft my thesis, Primos Dallas: Building a Mentoring Program for my Community. I've also attended Mentor National Conferences and have led mentor training workshops for Big Thought and other community organizations.
I want to create an opportunity for others to form authentic mentor relationships. I’ve gained so much from my experience!