Mentorship in the Arts: A Reflection on Watching Janaleesa's Project Come to Life

Kennedy is a Junior at Purdue University studying Biomedical Health Sciences.

My mentee is Janaleesa. She is very high-spirited, super funny, and kind. One of my favorite memories with Janaleesa was when we made pictures out of torn-up paper. When I originally told her about the activity, she looked at me with uncertainty.

She doubted her ability to make a picture out of scraps. However, as soon as we tore up the paper, she immediately began visualizing what her picture was going to be. She even started handing me scraps and giving me ideas on what to make. I loved seeing that spark of creativity ignite in her brain. After she made her picture, she went around showing everyone what she made and was super proud of her accomplishments. 

I have loved connecting with Janaleesa, and I look forward to seeing her every week. She is very vibrant, and her energy is infectious. As our connection grows, I look forward to continuing to be someone she can open up to about anything. I love hearing what she has to say and having her listen to my stories as well. I know she can and will do great things in life. I am excited to play even just a small part in her story.