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November 9, 2004
Record-Eagle/Lara Neel Senior Carl Alley writes his first e-mail in the e-Mentor program at Traverse City High School. Internet CoachesE-mail links students with adult mentorsByRecord-Eagle staff writer TRAVERSE CITY - Kaysea Waite and Autumn Gillow haven't met, but they expect an e-mail exchange to be the beginning of a meaningful relationship. Waite - a 17-year-old student at Traverse City High School, and Gillow - a corporate banker with National City, connected recently through the YouthFriends e-Mentoring program. "I thought it would be a good way to get a recommendation for a job down the line," Waite said, "or maybe if I have any personal problems or need help through the school year, possibly even after." "I hope to be able to help her, give a little bit of direction," Gillow said. "I remember what it's like to be in high school, all the pressure and social influences." Marco Dedenbach, who coordinates the program for the alternative high school, said it's the first of its kind in the state. He hopes it gives the students an advantage when they graduate and enter a world that often relies on who you know. "We just want to get our students connected with people in the community," he said. "There are lots of opportunities just from them having someone to talk to, recommendations and job shadowing." Students introduced themselves to their mentors Wednesday via e-mail. The exchanges will continue through the school year and involve work, homework and personal challenges. Trish Fiebing, United Way YouthFriends coordinator, said making a connection with business people can be an important resource for students, especially those who are undecided about the future. The e-mail program also is a great way to involve adults who might not otherwise be able to make time in their schedules. "A lot of our volunteers are interested in helping with career decisions, homework, and that's all going to be done over the Internet," she said. "It allows us to recruit mentors who do not have to leave their offices." Carl Alley, 19, is one of 35 students who will participate in the program. "I'm not really sure what I'll get, but I'll come away with something," he said. "I plan on soaking up as much information as I can."
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