Honors is a special part of the University because of the various classes and opportunities it offers to its students. But it also offers something rare, an Honors mentor for freshmen to learn from and befriend. 

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To shine more light on those special leaders in the honors college let’s hear from Rachel Praetzel, a previous mentor to an incoming Honors freshman. 

What drew you to being a mentor?

I always appreciated knowing that someone in the honors program would be there to answer my questions; I wanted to be that person for someone else, and make the first year honors students feel comfortable and welcome at Gannon. 

 

Why is having a mentor helpful?

Having a mentor allows the first year students to have the opportunity to have a broader understanding of Gannon University and the Honors program, from the perspective of another student in the program. 

 

What was your favorite memory from being a mentee?

During my freshman year, I enjoyed going to Jimmy John’s for lunch to meet my mentor and have my questions about the honors program answered. 

 

What is your favorite part of being a mentor?

Being a mentor is full of great memories; my favorite would have to be when both of my mentees and I took a walk together. We all got to know each other better, and shared our unique Gannon experiences. 

 

What is the best part of being a mentor?

I believe the best part about being a mentor is developing new, genuine friendships. I love both my mentees (shoutout to them for being awesome;), and have created some memories and friendships that I hope to carry with me beyond my years at Gannon. 

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