27 Dec December Spotlight 2023
This December, the student-mentor spotlight is on mentor Pat Campana and her mentee, Avery Bolt
Pat Campana, Mentor
What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?
I grew up in Philadelphia and lived there until my thirties. After moving to the Atlanta area in the 90’s, we discovered Amelia Island. My husband and I purchased a vacation home in 2007 and we moved permanently to Nassau County in 2015.
What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?
I was looking for a volunteer opportunity and through my friends heard about TSIC. I was impressed with the mission to provide tuition free education for students who may not have the resources. When my daughter was in high school I volunteered in the college and career center and thought TSIC would be a good fit.
How many students have you mentored?
My first experience as a mentor was substituting for a mentor who was taking a 4 month cruise in January 2018. I then mentored a student who graduated from Yulee HS in 2020.
What have you gained from mentoring Avery?
It is amazing watching a student grow as they go through high school. Avery is resilient in managing school, work and activities especially since her high school years were during Covid. She has met challenges and has gained confidence. She will be successful in achieving her goals.
Avery Bolt, Senior
Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?
My older brother was in Take Stock and when I saw the value that he got out of the relationship with his mentor I wanted that for myself.
What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Pat?
It’s nice to have somebody take interest in my future and help to keep me more organized.
What is your favorite memory from TSIC?
My favorite memory from TSIC was being able to tell my mentor I was accepted into my dream school, UCF. I thoroughly enjoyed the field trip that Take Stock took us on to UCF and that was what originally sparked my interest in the school.
What are your plans after you graduate high school and TSIC?
My plan after I graduate is to attend the University of Central Florida and major in nursing.