Peer mentoring is a powerful way to share inspiration and knowledge. When friends and colleagues engage in this process, they not only create a closer bond but also develop leadership skills and understand the importance of mutual support. I will now introduce you to Mikaela and Simena who have already created a strong bond through the ,,Peer to peer" program. Mikaela was Simena's mentor during the 2022/2023 school year. Mikaela is now a second year student in the "Preschool Pedagogy" program and Simena studies "Bulgarian Studies and Media". Both study at "Bishop Konstantin Preslavsky" Shumen University. They will tell us more.
Hello, girls! I'm so glad to see you, even if it is online! I'm even more excited to know more about your mentorship and how it evolved. Let's start first with a few blitz questions.
What are you names?
Simena Asenova Simeonova
Mikaela Lyubomirova Georgieva.
What are your nicknames?
Sissy.
You said it yourself- Mikky.
Are you nervous about this interview?
A little.
Yeah. Maybe a little.
Where do you study at?
В “Bishop Konstantin Preslavsky”, Шуменския университет.
In ”Bishop Konstantin Preslavsky” Shumen University, where Simena does.
What are your major studies?
Bulgarian Studies and Media.
Preschool Pedagogy.
What year are you in?
It's my first year.
I am already second year.
Thank you both! Let's go on with the mentoring process, Mikky. I would like to know how you met Simena and how did your mentorship start?
We met each other at the girls' camp last year (2022) in October. That's when the mentorship started.
What kind of advices were you giving to Simena as she wanted to apply to the university you study at?
Simena and I worked together a lot, and I shared important tips and things that were extremely important to her. We had conversations and meetings in which we commented on what major she wanted to study in, - where, why so she were building her idea of where it would be the best for her to pursue her dream major.
What do you think, Simena? Were the tips Mikaela gave you useful?
Yes, for sure! She helped me a lot. I didn't even know how to apply to university, but with her help and support I had the opportunity to study at university. Thank you Mikky!
The interesting thing here is why you chose to study "Bulgarian Studies and Media" but not "Preschool Pedagogy" which Mikaela studies (which was the original idea)?
Well, The issue was that a friend of mine and I, wanted to study together but not long after she left but I had already started so I stayed in this major. made this decision because I did not want to feel alone. Besides. I find this major interesting and now I put a lot of effort and work to develop myself in this field.
What were some of the challenges you faced studying 'Bulgarian Studies and Media'?
I faced almost no challenges! I just did it. With Mikky's help, of course.
Mikaela, how did you react about Simena's choice? Did you support her desision?
Honestly, I was a bit surprised, because I was expecting "Pedagogy" to the last, but the important thing is that she decided to develop, educate herself and move forward. And what she has chosen and most of all been accepted, I think she will succeed, I believe that. It was not a coincidence.I did not expect her to continue her education in this direction, but if that is her decision and she has an interest in this direction, let her pursue this major and improve herself. I support her and I stand by her.
Could you share with us what the "Peer to Peer" program give you?
I can say for myself that through participating in the program, in general, I motivated myself and for that I have managed to motivate Simena and I hope to motivate many other girls in the future. In a way it has prepared me for what I am now. Being a mentor and helping students choosing studying in university is extremely rewarding. Such collaboration enables me to provide valuable advices whick encourage students' development, their skills and help them in making important life decisions. It also creates a strong relationship for me that will continue into the future.
What would you say to the young people who are wondering whether to join the program?
Fill in the form and grow!
There is nothing to wonder and there is nothing to wait for!
I've developed a lot in the program, thanks to Mikky. She really was both a mentor and a friend!
The 'Peer to peer' program provides a unique opportunity for young people to share knowledge, experience and support with each other. It is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others and develop as individuals.
Well, can we expect you as mentors this year?
Yes, I want to pass on what I received!
Absolutely! That's the point!
Thank you for sharing your amazing experience in the 'Peer to peer' program! Your commitment and willingness to help creates an inspiring example for me and for everyone who are reading these words. I wish you both to achieve everything you dream of! Bravo! The 'Peer to peer' program not only promotes education for young Roma, but also helps them reach their highest human potential. If you are a university student who wants to be part of the change, don't wait, fill in the form (press HERE) and help people like you! We the high school students are waiting for YOU!
Interviewer: Gabriel Borisov.
Video editor: Miroslav Asenov