Congratulate this Month’s Mentor of the Month! Camila’s dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm have made a meaningful impact on our students and the College Steps community. This semester, she has gone above and beyond by organizing our Valentine’s Day activity, creating a fun and inclusive environment for everyone. She also shared a piece of her culture by frequently bringing in Brazilian snacks, giving students and mentors a unique experience. Additionally, Camila has been an active supporter of the Anime Club, helping to foster a welcoming space where students can connect over shared interests. Her kindness, reliability, and commitment to mentorship set her apart. Camila’s ability to uplift and engage students makes her an invaluable part of our team.
February 2025 Peer Mentor of the Month
Northern Virginia Community College Partners with College Steps to Assist Area Students with Disabilities
(Prince William County VA - FEBRUARY 18, 2025) — College Steps is launching a new program for Fall 2025 at Northern Virginia Community College Manassas & Woodbridge campuses to provide support for young adults living with social, communication, or learning challenges. In a unique, individualized model, which includes peer-to-peer mentoring, College Steps support high school transition students who would benefit from the college experience prior to graduation. College Steps also supports those exiting high school and those already enrolled at the University.
College Steps’ primary goal is to prepare students for meaningful careers and autonomy after completing the program, placing a strong emphasis on self-advocacy, social competencies, employment, and independent living skills. Students work with trained peer mentors who are supported by a full-time, on-site Program Coordinator at NOVA Manassas and Woodbridge campuses.
Prospective students, families, school district personnel, and advocates interested in learning more about this exciting new initiative are invited to attend public information sessions hosted by College Steps leadership staff. Attendees will learn about specific services offered including the individualized support model, admissions process, as well as associated costs and funding opportunities.
WHAT: College Steps / NOVA Manassas & Woodbridge Virtual Information Sessions
WHEN: Tuesday, Mar 11, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.; Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.; Thursday, Apr 3, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: Virtual
REGISTER: https://collegestepsnovamw2025.eventbrite.com
*Please reach out to us at admissions@collegesteps.org to arrange an individualized meeting if
this does not meet your needs at www.collegesteps.org/calendar-main
The priority application deadline recommended for Fall 2025 enrollment with College Steps at NOVA Manassas & Woodbridge campuses is April 1st, 2025. Additional information is available at www.CollegeSteps.org/contact.
January 2025 Peer Mentor of the Month
Janelle is a first semester mentor, but it already seems like she has always been a part of the CCM family much longer. This is especially striking because Janelle actually attends Kean University, she volunteered to commute to CCM between classes to fill a mentor shortage for that program! Janelle is 100% present and invested in every shift she works. She takes the time to connect with students and form a warm trusting relationship, at the same time modeling professional boundaries and positive work habits. Janelle is quick to identify areas where students may need support and to adapt her approach to match their learning styles. She is also very generous with sharing her knowledge with fellow mentors to collaborate and provide a consistent team approach to student support. Janelle's Major is Business Management & Entrepreneurship and her career goal is "to become an entrepreneur that changes people's lives". Well, she is making a great start!