Generations of Guidance: Sarah and Daniela’s Mentoring Story

Sarah Schifter has always found inspiration and support in her parents and grandparents, who have served as role models and guides throughout her life. “They diligently steered me towards my goals, ensuring I stayed on the right path (such as preparing for college), all the while creating a nurturing environment where I could flourish,” she says. “The profound influence of my family has inspired me to pay it forward, sharing the wisdom and support I've received with those who may lack similar guidance and experiences." Although she wanted to help young people and pass down her generational knowledge, she wasn’t quite sure where to start — but then she found iCouldBe, an e-mentoring program. 

Shortly after joining iCouldBe, Sarah met Daniela, a friendly, ambitious high school junior. Sarah was thrilled at the prospect of making a positive difference by helping Daniela achieve her goals and become more confident in herself. Even from the very start, Sarah and Daniela had a strong bond built through consistency, trust, and common interests. The two share a love for cooking, and often share recipes with each other — fish tacos were a recent favorite! 

Throughout their mentoring relationship, Sarah, a dedicated and compassionate mentor, has taken the time to truly understand Daniela and provide her full support. She encourages Daniela to be her best self and enjoys giving advice on subjects from school to careers to personal life. 

At the same time, Sarah has learned much from Daniela, who offers a fresh perspective, invaluable insight on what it’s like to be a high schooler today, and unbreakable motivation and resilience. This not only contributes to Sarah’s personal growth as an adult on her own journey, but it also enables her to better understand young people, influencing her approach to future mentoring relationships. 

Sarah and Daniela’s deep connection is based on honesty, vulnerability, and mutual understanding as mentor and mentee. In the year that they’ve been matched, they have each had a profound impact on each other that is, ultimately, life-changing. 

Sarah’s passion for mentoring led her to be nominated for the 2024 MENTOR of the Year Awards. If you share Sarah’s dedication and are interested in taking the next step to become a mentor, you can explore opportunities here.