Last week, Wheeler alumnus Luis Contreras '21 was back at school to meet with Carlos Sanchez '27 for a mentoring session. They've been paired up through the Student Support Program, which is an initiative of our Office of Unity and Diversity to encourage, assist, and celebrate students who are traditionally underrepresented in independent school communities and on college campuses. As part of the mentoring aspect of the program, recent Wheeler alumni get connected to current students and provide them with one-on-one support. “The academic mentors, like Luis, have a deep understanding of Wheeler's curriculum and faculty, which gives them a significant advantage in assisting students with specific academic coursework,” explains Unity & Diversity Student Support Coordinator Rose Phildor P'28. “They also provide guidance on navigating the cultural and institutional aspects of Wheeler, which can make all the difference in a student's ability to thrive at the school.”

Luis says he enjoys being a mentor so that he can help Carlos address some of the same challenges that he experienced as an Upper School student. “Being able to give advice that I wish I could've gotten at the time is the most fulfilling part of the mentor experience,” he says. Carlos adds, “One of the benefits of the program is getting connected to someone Hispanic like me.”

Thank you to Carlos, Luis, and Ms. Phildor for sharing this mentorship moment with us!