November Spotlight 2024

This month’s student-mentor spotlight is mentor Tonya Baudek and her mentee, Jenny Ta. The two have been matched since May 2020.

Tonya Baudek, Mentor

What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?

I grew up in Melbourne, FL, and I have lived in Nassau County for 8 years. I came here with my family after living in the DC area for 5 years. 

What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?

I had many mentors during my youth who didn’t necessarily carry the title of mentor but they were teachers, coaches and people who invested their time in guiding me. They gave me good advice, believed in me and cared for me at a time when I was trying to figure out life. I am certain that much of my success in life is a result of having these individuals who took the time to care and invest in me during those years. Therefore, giving back and mentoring a local student will always be a goal of mine and important to me.

How many students have you mentored?
I have mentored one student. Jenny and I have been meeting regularly for 5 years, and she will graduate this year which brings on many emotions.. 

What have you gained from mentoring Jenny?

I often joke around and I say I think Jenny mentors me more than I mentor her! Jenny is so smart, caring and driven. I would like to think that I have had a positive impact on her and that I am someone she trusts and knows that I am always in her corner. I feel like I gained a daughter with her, and I look forward to watching her succeed throughout her life! 

Jenny Ta, Yulee High School

Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?

I applied for Take Stock because I wanted the opportunity to be part of a program that supported my education and personal growth. The scholarship assistance was a big draw, but I was equally excited about the mentorship and guidance it offered. I knew Take Stock would help me stay on track for college, both financially and personally, and give me a support network to navigate the challenges of high school.

What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Tonya?

Ms. Tonya has taught me so much about resilience and the importance of setting achievable goals. Through her, I’ve learned that success isn’t about immediate results but the effort and consistency I put in. She’s shown me the value of self-reflection, encouraging me to take time to appreciate small wins and learn from setbacks. Our relationship has also taught me the importance of having a support system that genuinely believes in my potential.

What is your favorite memory from TSIC?

My favorite memory from TSIC is actually our weekly meetings. Every meeting with Ms. Tonya feels like a chance to unwind and talk openly about my week. It’s amazing to have that time just to connect and get advice, and it really helps me get rid of any stress I’ve been carrying. Those weekly check-ins are a highlight, and they’ve become something I look forward to because I always leave feeling supported and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

What are your plans after you graduate high school and TSIC?
After high school, I plan to attend college with a focus on pre-med or a related field. My goal is to eventually work in public health, specifically as a pediatric critical care paramedic, and potentially with a non-profit humanitarian organization like UNICEF. Take Stock has given me a foundation and motivation to pursue these ambitions, and I’m excited to see where my education will take me next!