By: Nayely Chicas, Fulfillment Fund Peer Mentor
This summer, I was welcomed back by my Fulfillment Fund family to continue in my role as a peer mentor, a position that has been one of the most enriching and transformational parts of my past two summers. I first stepped into this role with the desire to support students on their journey to college, just as Fulfillment Fund has supported me since middle school. What I didn’t realize was how much I would grow, both personally and professionally, through the process.
One of the most impactful moments for me came at the beginning of the summer during Fulfillment Fund University. There, I had the chance to meet my UCLA cohort and connect with other students on a more personal level. Listening to their hopes, dreams, worries, and excitement as they embarked on this new chapter was deeply meaningful. Many of them wanted to hear about my academic and social experiences, and I was grateful for the opportunity to share what I had learned. Their openness, energy, and curiosity made our conversations meaningful and helped set the tone for the rest of the summer.
Later in the summer, during one of our workshops, I worked with a student who was feeling unsure about summer programs. At first, they seemed anxious and uncertain about their next steps. As we walked through the process together and discussed their goals, I could see their confidence growing. Watching their transformation from doubt to excitement as they prepared for orientation was a powerful reminder of how mentorship can help students believe in their own potential.
As a peer mentor, I have learned that listening is just as important as advising. Creating a safe space where students feel comfortable voicing their concerns has been central to my approach. Along the way, I have also grown my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Receiving feedback from Fulfillment Fund staff and engaging in thoughtful conversations with advisors has further shaped my learning. On a personal level, mentoring has strengthened my empathy and patience, qualities I know will serve me in every aspect of my life.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue connecting with first-year students this fall. I will be attending UCLA’s Enormous Activities Fair and Westwood Block Party with them. These events give students a fun and exciting way to experience campus life, explore organizations, meet new people, and start building community. I look forward to guiding them through these moments, encouraging them to get involved, and helping them find spaces where they can grow and flourish.
Mentoring is a reciprocal experience. While I am there to support and guide students, I have also learned so much from them, including their sense of purpose, resilience, curiosity, and determination. My time with Fulfillment Fund has expanded my understanding of what it means to create opportunities for students to feel seen, supported, and empowered. I am deeply thankful for these experiences and even more excited to continue making an impact throughout the year.
Stay tuned to our TikTok as Nayely continues mentoring and spotlighting student stories!