Paying it forward: Mentoring opportunities that come from awarding scholarships

This month, a former student reached out to let me know she had been awarded a scholarship. I’ve had the privilege of serving as her mentor and writing her recommendation, so hearing her joy and pride was a moment I won’t forget. She told me how inspiring the celebration dinner was and how she plans to stay connected to the organization. Her words were full of hope and momentum.

Later that day, I attended a scholarship ceremony, delighted to support two of my students as they received a scholarship that honors women pursuing accounting who do not have access to traditional pathways or professional networks.

Receiving scholarship support and mentorship allowed me to see my potential reflected back and made me stop defining myself by my circumstances. It shaped my path and the kind of mentor and advocate I strive to be.

Moments like these bring me back to my own journey, to when I was awarded scholarships from organizations like Zonta International, the American Association of University Women, the Institute of Management Accountants, Rotary, the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting, the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance, the Puget Sound Business Journal, the Elks Club, and more. Specifically, it made me reflect on the mentoring opportunities that came from receiving scholarships, and on the the a sense of belonging that has come from having incredible mentors in my life.

I’m grateful every day for those who invested in me! Their small acts of encouragement were the beginning of everything for me and for those I now help along the way.