Sophia Kibler

   As students at Marriotts Ridge settle into the new school year, they can be on the lookout for clubs that have started holding their interest meetings. MAP (Mentorship and Academic Planning) Club has held its first meeting, welcoming and supporting students who have questions regarding academics and extracurriculars. 

   MAP club was created as a student-led resource, matching upperclassmen, or mentors, with any student who needs academic support and guidance while navigating post-high school plans. 

   “Whether a student needs help studying for the SAT or ACT, finding an internship, or completing college applications, MAP connects them with a mentor who can provide the support they need. Because every student has different goals and questions, MAP is adaptable to each student’s needs, with the goal of helping every student… feel supported and prepared for the next step,” president Addison Cox shared. 

   Seeking mentorship from students may be particularly helpful because they understand the challenges that come with juggling AP classes and extracurricular activities. With a traditional college coach, there may be a disconnect between their high standards and what students actually have the capacity to do. The basic understanding and connection that Mustang mentors have to Marriotts Ridge is particularly helpful for students seeking guidance, as they have the knowledge of staff in the building and resources that our school provides. Student mentors at Marriotts Ridge also understand the school’s highly competitive academic culture among peers. 

   “There’s an unspoken expectation at Marriotts Ridge that students should have everything figured out on their own. Students may avoid asking for help because they’re embarrassed to seem behind, leaving them to struggle in school alone. While we can’t change these expectations, we can provide a space where students can ask questions without embarrassment and feel less stressed,” Cox shared. 

   Marriott Ridge is known for a culture of competitive academics and high-achieving students. What comes with these high expectations, though, is a sea of students scrambling to reach them. MAP club is specifically beneficial to the Marriotts Ridge school environment because many students come from a background of academic pressure. Whether from peers or parents, academic pressure, though always present, can be eased with a mentor. Without the shame of embarrassment, students can feel free to ask questions regarding their future and feel secure. At each meeting, students are matched with a mentor who has specific knowledge and skills to answer their questions and connect them with resources like internships, jobs, and other post-high school opportunities.

   MAP club can be contacted on Instagram (@map.mrhs), and meeting information can be found through their posts and Canvas announcements. Students have a lot on their plate, and MAP club can help manage schedules and planning.