The Impact of Two Mentors on My Educational Journey by Darci

The Impact of Two Mentors on My Educational Journey by Darci - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have two mentors who have played an instrumental role in shaping both my professional path and my decision to pursue higher education. Mrs. McAtee, the Director of the Nursing Program, and Mrs. Henggeler, my Director in Student Account Services, each provided me with guidance and encouragement at pivotal moments in my life. Without their belief in me, I know I would not be where I am today.

For many years, I applied to work at Northwest Missouri State University, only to be passed over again and again. I had the experience and work ethic, but the doors never seemed to open. Then, Mrs. McAtee was hired to lead the Nursing Program, and everything changed. Despite the stiff competition, she saw something in me that others had overlooked, my commitment to my work, my professional references, and my determination. Mrs. McAtee gave me the opportunity to interview and eventually join the University staff, a chance I had been waiting for over the course of five plus years. She opened the door for me, and that opportunity set me on a new trajectory. It was through her faith in me that I was able to enter a workplace that would later foster both my career advancement and personal growth.

After working for Mrs. McAtee, I continued to rise within the University. I eventually became the Coordinator in the Student Account Services department, where I met Mrs. Henggeler. Under her guidance, I found myself in a new chapter of my professional journey. For three years, I worked closely with Mrs. Henggeler, and she became a mentor in ways I never expected. It was during one private meeting that she made a suggestion that would change the course of my life: she encouraged me to pursue a college degree. She did not press me or demand that I go back to school, but rather, she made me see the long-term benefits. She explained that a degree would open doors for me to continue rising within the University, both professionally and financially. She told me I have the ability to do big things and she does not want me held up from any future advancements or opportunities due to the one piece I was missing, a degree.

At the time, I struggled with self-doubt. Although I had always dreamed of furthering my education, fear of failure held me back. As a mother of three, working two jobs, and balancing family life, the idea of returning to school felt overwhelming. However, Mrs. Henggeler’s unwavering support helped me push through that fear. She saw not only my potential to grow professionally but also my capacity to succeed academically. Her belief in me gave me the courage to take the leap. Without her encouragement, I might never have considered pursuing a degree as a non-traditional student—balancing family, work, and being over 40. Today, I am in my sophomore year of college, something I once thought was beyond reach. As I navigate the demands of school, work, and family, I often reflect on the profound impact Mrs. McAtee and Mrs. Henggeler have had on my life. Mrs. McAtee opened the doors to my professional growth at the University, while Mrs. Henggeler’s guidance made it possible for me to pursue my degree—something that once seemed unattainable.

Their mentorship has shaped the way I approach both my career and my education. Because of their guidance, I am no longer held back by fear or self-doubt. I continue to push myself to grow both professionally and personally, knowing that I can achieve more than I once thought possible. I am deeply grateful to both Mrs. McAtee and Mrs. Henggeler for believing in me when I could not see my own potential. Their impact on my journey will stay with me as I continue to climb the ladder, both in my career and in my educational endeavors.