The transition into high school is stressful and full of the uncertainty that comes with a new environment, but before the first bell even rings, Link Crew is there to offer support.

“We are their first lens … the very first time that [incoming freshmen] set foot on campus is orientation or rather eighth grade family night for [the] majority … we are there from day one when new students come,” Link Crew advisor Kathryn Rush said.

This warm welcome helps the students let go of their worries and sparks excitement about starting the school year. Each mentor has their reasons for joining the organization. For some of them, Link Crew was their first introduction to the school and they had a positive experience and felt a sense of belonging.

“When I was first a freshman, I literally knew nothing about high school, the campus, extracurriculars,” said sophomore and Link Crew mentor Benita Badrizadeh. “Upperclassmen were able to help in so many ways. [With Link Crew] I discovered a way to be that same helpful mentor to others.”

Link Crew helps freshmen build confidence, and a tight-knit community with their peers. Badrizadeh talked about a younger student who wanted to participate in school but didn’t know where to start, she encouraged and gave the student advice. “Now, a semester has passed, she loves her team, she’s helped her community in multiple ways through her clubs, and she’s made new lasting friendships,” Badrizadeh said.

Link Crew also benefits the mentors within the program, helping them learn how to interact and help students with different backgrounds and personalities. “I learned that like each person has their own style, and if you want to get through to them, and talk to them, and have a good time, you have to look at the person they are and go from there,”said sophomore and Link Crew mentor Yasna Nouri.

Being part of Link Crew allowed her as a mentor to practice her social skills, learn to communicate with different people, and develop leadership skills. It is also exciting and rewarding for the teachers who see their students shine and take on new roles and skills as part of the crew.

“Getting students to be able to be the ones to build the social skills and the leadership skills and the interpersonal communication skill. Like it’s one thing for me to stand there and lead a classroom of students… but to transfer that over [is rewarding],” said Rush.