Finding Your Authentic Self

Student Mentorship Session Breakdown

The first of seven summer mentorship sessions kicked off with a conversation around authentic awareness.

Led by our mentorship partner, One Voice, One Team, students explored what it means to understand who you are, what shapes your perspective, and how that understanding evolves over time.

The session challenged students to think about why they think the way they do and encouraged them to recognize that awareness isn't something we're born with; it's something we develop through reflection, experience, and a willingness to learn more about ourselves. Students also explored the idea that their authentic selves will continue to change throughout life.

As mentor Sherri Sanjurjo shared,

“Who we've always been is who we are becoming. It's all in the same.”

Students also heard from PinballBURSARY alumna Anya, who spoke candidly about her own journey of self-discovery and the importance of finding your voice beyond grades, achievements, and accolades.

Drawing from her experiences, Anya shared several pieces of advice with the group:

· Learn to navigate challenges on your own.

· Give yourself grace.

· Your value isn't measured by your productivity.

· Confidence isn't always loud.

· Don't focus on being liked by everyone.

· Learn to be uncomfortable in order to become comfortable.

· Lead with compassion and give people the opportunity to be understood.

· Post-secondary is about more than academics; it's also about discovering your voice, your boundaries, and your values.

· Be open to the many versions of yourself you will encounter along the way. It's okay to outgrow old habits.

In breakout rooms, students spent time reflecting on what comes naturally to them. Students shared experiences and perspectives they hadn't spoken about publicly, creating honest and thoughtful discussions. It was a powerful reflection of the safe, supportive environment our mentors have built—one where students feel comfortable showing up as their authentic selves.