From Club Kid to College Guide: Cricket HBCU Campus Ambassador Program Pays Mentorship Forward
For HBCU students Asia, Tatiana and Robert, their local Boys & Girls Clubs were more than a stop between school and home. It’s where they found mentors who prepared them for the transition from high school to college.
Asia learned to lead. Tatiana embraced her full potential, and Robert discovered new possibilities. Most importantly, all three learned the power of positive guidance while starting college and chose to pay it forward in the Cricket HBCU Campus Ambassador Program.
In this role, Asia, Tatiana and Robert reach as they climb when they bring their acquired lessons to their Boys & Girls Clubs. They enjoy the full-circle experience of becoming mentors themselves.
Braving New Environments
Before joining, Asia had heard plenty about Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada from friends. Their stories painted a picture of community, mentorship and giving back that piqued her interest. Through her Club’s teen leadership programs, Asia began leading community service projects, like distributing food at shelters and organizing neighborhood clean-ups.
“My mentor, Ms. Evans, emphasized the importance of being a community leader,” Asia says. “These experiences helped me feel more confident on college tours.”
At Central State University, Asia stayed grounded while exploring her new surroundings, a mindset she gained from her Club leadership experiences.
“It was difficult at first,” says Asia. “But I overcame it by getting involved in organizations on campus, which built my confidence and connections.” An aspiring sales and marketing director, Asia takes pride in sharing her experiences with other students, offering support without judgment.
“I often tell my peers not to fear taking risks, to believe in themselves and pursue what they’re passionate about,” says Asia. “College is not just about academics — it’s about growing, learning and making a difference.”
From Cheerleader to Confident Leader
Tatiana first joined Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay’s cheer program to practice her dance skills, but quickly gained much more.
“My cheer coach became my mentor,” says Tatiana. “They taught me to pursue my dreams, no matter how big and their belief made me feel capable of anything. That mindset stuck with me in college.”
Tatiana’s coach not only guided her through the college application process, but provided tutoring support to help her stay on top of her academics. They also sparked Tatiana’s passion for pursuing a career that blends business with giving back.
“Transitioning to Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University was exciting but challenging, especially adjusting to the academic workload and being away from home,” says Tatiana. “The Club’s support helped me approach college life with confidence and a clear vision. I stayed focused and sought help when I needed it.”
Eager to pay forward her mentorship, Tatiana became a Cricket HBCU Campus Ambassador. She shares tips on managing time, practicing leadership and staying true to oneself.
“Mentorship was crucial to me, and now I can be that person for someone else,” says the business administration major. “It’s very fulfilling to be in a position where I can offer guidance to others.”
Paying It Forward Through Mentorship
With both parents working at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands, Robert stayed at the Club most days after school. While waiting for their shifts to end, Club staff made sure he knew all his options after high school.
“Each staff member always took the opportunity to teach us, no matter our age, about the world and our futures ahead of us,” says Robert. “They gave us courage to step outside our comfort zones.”
Bolstered by his Club mentors, Robert entered North Carolina Central University with an open mind. His biggest challenge was balancing fun with responsibilities.
“My Club taught me to finish my work first so that I could fully enjoy the rewards after,” Robert says. “They also made me realize that I wanted to be just like all the people who had helped me: a mentor to other teens starting college.”
Participating in the Cricket HBCU Campus Ambassador Program helped Robert develop marketing and media skills for his mass communications degree. It also ignited his passion for advocacy and leadership.
“I tell my mentees that the only way to move forward is to put yourself out there,” he says. “Be bold and seize every opportunity. But never forget what makes you, you!”
Opening the Door to Future Leaders
Boys & Girls Club mentors support students in planning for life after school, including helping with college applications, financial aid and career exploration. 2-in-3 Club high school seniors have explored career options, compared to 1-in-4 of their peers nationally.1 Learn more about our mentoring services and find a Boys & Girls Club near you.
The Cricket HBCU Campus Ambassador Program is the wireless carrier’s commitment to creating meaningful connections for the next generation of leaders. The program welcomes students from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) member schools. It provides them opportunities to grow their marketing skills as they implement marketing plans on their campuses. As a proud supporter of HBCU programs since 2018, Cricket Wireless is inspiring smiles through culture, service and community.
