Brilliant Pathways is incredibly grateful to partner with SUNY Potsdam and SUNY Plattsburgh to create a virtual mentoring program for students in grades six through nine in seven different GEAR UP schools in the Adirondack Region. CFES Brilliant Pathways is a non profit organization that works with high poverty schools and develops programs based on three core practices: Mentoring, Essential Skills, and Pathways to College and Career.
The 62 student-athletes from Potsdam and Plattsburgh have volunteered and committed to the rigorous process. Each athlete is vetted through their respective schools and then completed an interest inventory and a detailed mentor training program with CFES Fellows. The student-athletes are then matched up with students from and meet during free periods or lunch for 20-30 minutes a couple of times per month. The students are coordinated in small teams to meet with their college mentors and have the opportunity to explore college majors, discuss college opportunities, and the dedication it takes to be a college student-athlete.
The athletes learned how to facilitate conversations with these adolescent students to teach and build their Essential Skills: Teamwork, Agility, Resilience, Networking, Leadership, and Goal Setting. They will also discuss how using the Essential Skills has helped them on their own path to success. Our ultimate goal is to build strong relationships and assist students with making good decisions as they create their own pathways towards college and career readiness!
