Recently, Alive’s mission came full circle as members of our Alive Link Alumni Group (comprised of past teen leads) returned to inspire and guide the next generation of leaders during a powerful panel discussion titled “Ready, Set, College!”
Presented exclusively to our current Teen Advisory Boards (TAB), this event was created to ease anxieties, answer questions, and provide real, honest insights about the transition from high school to college.
What made this night so impactful was the authenticity and relatability of the speakers. These alumni were once in the exact same seats as our current TAB teen, navigating big decisions, uncertainty, and excitement about their futures. Now thriving in college, they were eager to share what they wish they knew and offer firsthand guidance.
Topics That Mattered Most to Teens
The conversation hit on key areas that are often the most overwhelming parts of the college journey:
College Application Process
Our alumni walked teens through everything from deadlines to essays, explaining how to make applications stand out and how to manage stress during the process.
Choosing the Right Schools
Panelists shared personal stories about how they narrowed down their college lists, not just based on prestige, but on financial fit, campus culture, academic support, and overall environment.
Deciding on a Major
One of the biggest worries teens voiced was, “What if I don’t know what I want to major in?” Alumni reassured them that it’s okay to not have everything figured out and that many students change majors during college. The emphasis was on exploration, passion, and growth rather than pressure.
Creating a Safe Space for Real Questions
What made the night truly special was the vulnerability shared. Teens were able to ask honest questions, about financial aid, homesickness, academic challenges, and even imposter syndrome. Our alumni responded with compassion, clarity, and encouragement.
One TAB member shared afterward,
“Hearing from people who were literally in my shoes just a few years ago made everything feel so much less scary. I actually feel excited now instead of stressed.”
Why This Matters
Alive is not just preparing teens for today, we are preparing them for life beyond our walls. The Ready Set College panel is just one example of how our Teen-Led, Teen-Driven™ model continues to grow through mentorship, leadership, and real-world readiness.
By connecting current teens with alumni who have walked the path before them, we are building a powerful cycle of empowerment, teens helping teens become the confident, resilient leaders of tomorrow.
What’s Next
This is just the beginning for Alive Link. Future panel topics will include:
- Financial planning and scholarships
- Navigating college social life and mental health
- Career pathways and internships
Alive Alumni are not just staying connected, they’re leading the way.
Because when teens are supported, mentored, and believed in, they don’t just step into the future, they shape it.